Metabolic syndrome associated risk factors: Findings among female undergraduate university students

Aim: Evaluating the risk factors predisposing to Metabolic Syndrome (MetS) among female undergraduate university students. Method: A cross-sectional study was conducted at Ajman University, United Arab Emirates. A total of 200 female students 18-26 years old were recruited in the study. A structured questionnaire was designed then filled by the students; it considered their personal information, socio-demographic data, medication history and family history of medical diseases. It also described their dietary and lifestyle profiles. Weight, height, waist/ hip circumferences, blood pressure and random glucose were measured. Statistical analysis was performed by SPSS version 24. Results: Study showed that 20% of the participants have BMI ≥ 25 kg/m²and 12% of them have waist circumference >35 inches. Significant correlations were found between anxiety symptoms and both physical inactivity and excess eating, smoking and increased waist circumference. Also skipping breakfast was significantly correlated with weight gain, high blood pressure as well as high glucose levels. Family history of diseases was evidenced to be an important risk factor. Family history of diabetes was significantly correlated with increased plasma glucose levels, family history of heart attack and both hypertension and increased blood glucose levels. Conclusion: Results revealed that female students are prone to suffer from MetS, due to presence of multiple risk factors. It is imperative for individuals to be advised on what would help reduce their risks of developing MetS.