Obesity and risk of developing metabolic syndrome in postgraduate students from Veracruz, Mexico

Abstract

Introduction: Since the health of students influences their academic performance and terminal efficiency, and obesity increases in adults, the purpose of the study was to analyze the anthropometric and environmental variables associated with metabolic syndrome risk in graduate students.

Material and Methods: It was a cross-sectional study in 52 students using intentional sampling non-probability. Weight, height, and body mass index were evaluated. According to waist circumference, the waist-to-hip ratio and body fat the risk of metabolic syndrome was identified. Family history, personal, weight at birth, weekly intake of food, alcohol, tobacco and coffee, level of physical activity, depression and stress were recorded. Differences between means, correlations, and linear regression models were analyzed.

Results: Weight (74.8±13.9; p=0.0024), waist circumference (87.6±9.0; p=0.0044) and the waist-to-hip ratio (0.9±0.0; p=0.0000) were higher in men and body fat were higher (35.4±4.5; p=0.0000) in women. According to the waist circumference and the body fat 34% and 87%, respectively, showed risk of developing metabolic syndrome, mostly women. The model of linear regression for body fat, included sex (B=9.5; p=0.0000) and mild stress (B=4.7; p=0.0410). The model for body mass index included hip circumference, waist circumference, depression and severe stress (B=1.61; p=0.0486). More than 50% showed no consumption of milk, nuts and legumes.

Conclusions: The variables associated with higher risk of developing metabolic syndrome indicators were sex and stress. Poor feeding habits became apparent.