Metabolic Syndrome Risks Of Thai University Male Population

Abstract

ABSTRACT

As a major risk factor in all-cause mortality, metabolic syndrome (MetS) is a global public health concern. This study assessed the MetS risk in 638 Thai male students aged 16-24 by measuring BMI, waist circumference (WC), and waist-to-height ratios (WHtR). A self-report form assessed weekly physical activity (PA) as PA is inversely related to MetS: higher PA levels decrease MetS risk. Associations were explored by converting data to categories and using Chi-Square. 

Results for BMI, using Asian cut-offs of 25 kgm² and 30 kgm², found that 43.2% of participants were either overweight or obese. There were similar percentages for WC (50.8%) and WHtR (44.9%). For PA, 21.6% did not achieve the minimum of 75 min/week of moderate PA as specified by the World Health Organisation (2010). All anthropometric measurements, in combination or individually, were significantly associated with PA (apart from BMI on its own), indicating that those with unhealthy weight profiles are more likely to have low levels of PA.

Key conclusions are that the high percentage of overweight and obese participants in this study, as measured by BMI and WC, suggest significant negative health consequences for the future including for MetS. Suggestions for managing and preventing MetS are discussed.    

Key words: BMI; waist circumference; waist-to-height ratio; metabolic syndrome