THE CARDIOVASCULAR FACTORS AND METABOLIC SYNDROME IN AN ELDERLY MALE CHINESE OCCUPATIONAL POPULATION

Purpose This study was conducted to explore the prevalence of metabolic syndrome and identify associated risk factors in an elderly male occupational population in Taipei, Taiwan. Methods A total of 2734 healthy subjects over age 65 voluntarily presented to a teaching hospital for a physical checkup in 2010. Demographic data and blood test results were collected. Metabolic syndrome was diagnosed according to NCEP ATP III criteria. Results The mean age of study participants was 74.4 +/- 6.6 years. The prevalence of metabolic syndrome was estimated at 29.9% (95% CI: 28.2%-31.6%). After adjustment for confounding factors, higher body-mass index (OR=1.50, 95% CI 1.41-1.62), higher mean body fat (% of total mass, OR=1.11, 95% CI: 1.04-1.20), elevated serum uric acid (OR=1.13, 95% CI: 1.02-1.26), and elevated alanine aminotransferase (OR=1.01, 95% CI: 1.00-1.02), and sedentary lifestyle (yes vs. no, OR=1.22, 95% CI: 1.09-1.37) were identified as the most significant risk factors associated with metabolic syndrome. Conclusion The prevalence of metabolic syndrome is related to several cardiovascular risk factors. Health initiatives directed towards preventing and treating metabolic syndrome could significantly reduce the prevalence of diabetes and cardiovascular disease in this older population.