Sex-specific correlates of metabolic syndrome risk in college-aged young adults

Abstract

Objective To identify the sex-specific prevalence of metabolic syndrome (MetS) risk factors and their physiological, psychosocial, and behavioral correlates in a college-aged population. Participants and methods: Cross-sectional assessment of MetS risk factors and potential correlates occurred in 379 first-year students (aged 18.34 ± 0.49 years, 67.3% female). Multivariable linear regression assessed the relationships between potential correlates and continuous MetS risk scores, derived from principal component analysis. Results: MetS risk factors were present in 58.4% of females and 68.5% of males, with 2.4% and 3.2% having defined MetS. In females, percent body fat (β = 0.46, p < 0.001), stress (β = 0.12, p = 0.031), % kcal from sugar (β = 0.18, p = 0.001), and moderate-to-vigorous physical activity (β=-0.12, p = 0.036) were associated with risk score. Whereas, correlates in males included percent body fat (β = 0.54, p < 0.001), C-reactive protein (β = 0.15, p = 0.045), and AUDIT alcohol consumption score (β = 0.15, p = 0.033). Conclusion: The sex-specific prevalence of MetS risk factors and correlates suggest that primary prevention strategies on college campuses should also follow a sex-specific approach.