Objective

To know the conception of users of a hypertension and diabetes program about metabolic syndrome.

Method

This is an exploratory-descriptive study with a qualitative approach conducted in the city of Jequié, Bahia. The study participants were users of the hypertension and diabetes program of a health center. This study was approved by the Research Ethics Committee of the State University of Southwest Bahia (Opinion N°. 013/2011).

Results

From content analysis three categories emerged: conception of the metabolic syndrome; psychosocial factors and treatment, and six subcategories: life-threatening; fear; indifference; decreased ability to perform activities of daily living; difficulty adapting to diet, and adherence to drug treatment.

Conclusions

It was perceived that the disease has a negative impact on users' lives as they understand the disease as a risk factor that can reduce or limit their ability to perform daily tasks.