Factors Associated with Metabolic Syndrome Among Thai Women

Purpose: This study aimed to describe factors associated with metabolic syndrome among Thai adult women.

Methods: A cross-sectional analytic research was designed and carried out in a tertiary hospital located in southern Thailand. Systematic random sampling was used to select the participants (n=120) from the potential clients with metabolic syndrome (n=360). Data were collected through the metabolic syndrome questionnaire on risk behavior concerning dietary intake, physical activity and exercise. 

Results: Results showed that significant factors associated with the metabolic syndrome among Thai adult women were: 1) current body weight, 2) current body mass index, 3) presence of abdominal obesity, 4) a history of overweight or obesity, 5) a history of consuming sweetened drink or disserts, 6) a history of consuming processed food containing high fructose corn syrup, 7) a history of consuming animal fat, 8) a history of gestational diabetes mellitus, 9) a history of gestational hypertension or preeclampsia,  10) a history of postpartum impaired glucose tolerance, or impaired fasting glucose, 11) taking care of two children or more, and 12) lack of regular exercise.

Conclusion:

In conclusion, a history of overweight or obesity and lack of exercise are two main leading causes of metabolic syndrome. These findings should be used to empower and promote self-management to restrict unhealthy eating and motivate regular exercise, in particular for adult women with a history of gestational diabetes, gestational hypertension or preeclampsia.