title: The impact of a community trial on the pharmacological treatment in the individuals with the metabolic syndrome: findings from the Isfahan Healthy Heart Program, 2001-2007.
abstract: BACKGROUND
  Pharmacological therapy is a crucial step in the management of individuals with the metabolic syndrome, when lifestyle modifications alone cannot achieve the therapeutic goals. The present study aimed to evaluate the efficacy of comprehensive interventions with the pharmacological treatment in individuals with the metabolic syndrome.
  
  
  METHODS
  A cross-sectional population-based survey examined a sample of adults before and after conducting a community trial. Physical examination and blood sampling, data regarding the demographic characteristics, medical status and history of medication use were obtained. Pharmacologic treatment related to metabolic syndrome's components was also determined.
  
  
  RESULTS
  The most common pharmacologic agents consumed by individuals with metabolic syndrome were β-blockers (26.1% and 30.4% in 2001 and 2007, respectively), followed by lipid-lowering agents (5.4% and 14% in 2001 and 2007, respectively), with significant differences before and after intervention. The prevalence of metabolic syndrome was higher in women than in men both before (36.4% vs. 14%) and after the community trial (26.1% vs. 16%, respectively) in the intervention areas (p < 0.001).
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  We found a significant increase in medication use to control blood pressure and dyslipidemia among the individuals with the metabolic syndrome, notably in the intervention areas. In addition to the population approach, the high-risk approach should be considered in community trials for prevention and control of non-communicable diseases.
authors: Isfahan Cardiovascular Research Institute, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran.
authors: Mojgan
authors: M
authors: Gharipour
authors: Roya
authors: R
authors: Kelishadi
authors: Alireza
authors: A
authors: Khosravi
authors: Shahin
authors: S
authors: Shirani
authors: Mohsen
authors: M
authors: Masjedi
authors: Nizal
authors: N
authors: Sarrafzadegan
keywords: Iran; community trial; metabolic syndrome; pharmacological treatment