Abstract: Objective The present study was deigned to get an insight into the epidemic characteristics and the risk factors of metabolic syndrome among inhabitants in the city of Taiyuan.Methods The stratified- clustered- random sampling method was used to conduct a cross- sectional survey on 3869 inhabitants aged 20 years or above in the city of from 2005 to 2006. The incidence of the epidemic in the area was worked out, with the risk factors associated with the disease determined using multiple regression analysis. Results Based on the IDF definition, CDS definition and NCEPATPⅢ definition, the standardized prevalence of metabolic syndrome in the area was 17.8%(men15.2%; women 20.4%), 17.5%(men 20.1%; women 14.8%) and 12.2% (men 9.9%; women 14.6%),respectively. According to the IDF definition and NCEP definition, the prevalence of metabolic syndrome was higher in women than in men (P0.001). It was higher in men than in women (P0.001)when the CDS definition was used. Increased age and BMI were risk factors for the disease in bothgenders, with mental laborers more susceptible to metabolic syndrome in men, and unemployment and frequent ingestion of preserved foods be risk factors in women for the disease. Moderate exercises(4- 5day/week and30 minute/day) in men and mild alcohol consumption (30 g/day) in women werefound to be good for the prevention of the disease. Conclusion Metabolic syndrome has become asubstantial public health problem affecting the life and health of inhabitants in the city of Taiyuan.Comprehensive strategies for the prevention and control of the disease, including weight control andadequate physical exercises, are badly needed in the city.