Prevalence Of Metabolic Syndrome Risk Factors In High School And University Football Players

Abstract

PURPOSE: Metabolic syndrome is a clustering of metabolic and cardiovascular risk factors leading to an increased risk of cardiovascular disease. The purpose of this study was to determine the prevalence of metabolic syndrome risk factors in high school and college football players and examine if the prevalence varied according to playing level and position. METHODS: 123 males from eight different high schools and 82 males from one university participated in this study. Testing occurred in the early morning following an overnight fast. Waist circumference, resting systolic and diastolic blood pressure, and fasting triglyceride, HDL cholesterol, and blood glucose were determined as metabolic risk factors using American Heart Association criteria. Participants were split into three groups: big (lineman); athletic (quarterbacks, tight ends, running backs, and linebackers); and skilled (wide receivers, defensive backs) for data analysis and interpretation. A chi-square analysis was used to assess differences across the playing level and the football positions (i.e., big, athletic, skilled). RESULTS: The prevalence of metabolic syndrome risk factors by playing level and position is shown below. CONCLUSION: High school and college football players, despite a high level of physical activity, demonstrate a prevalence of metabolic syndrome risk factors that may place them at risk for developing cardiovascular disease later in life. The level of risk varies based on playing level and body size.Table