Risk Factors of Metabolic Syndrome among Normal Weight Adolescents in Lagos, Nigeria

O. A.. Moronkola, E. E, Oyenusi, A. O. Oduwole, U. A. Sanni

Abstract

BACKGROUND: In the last few decades, the global disease
epidemiology shift has resulted in the preponderance of noncommunicable
diseases such as Metabolic Syndrome (MetS).
Globally, an increasing prevalence is reported among children and
adolescents in whom the condition was once rare. There is a dearth of
data in Nigeria on MetS, especially among normal-weight adolescents.

OBJECTIVE: To determine the prevalence and risk factors of MetS
among normal-weight adolescents attending secondary schools at
Mushin Local Government, Lagos.

METHODS: This descriptive cross-sectional study recruited
adolescents using a multi-stage sampling technique. Self-administered
questionnaires were used to obtain data on socio-demographic
characteristics, physical activity, medical, family and dietary history.
Waist circumference (WC), was measured from the midpoint between
the lowest rib and the top of the iliac crest to determine central obesity,
Body mass index was calculated as weight (in kilograms) divided by
2 height (in meters ), and the World Health Organization (WHO)
growth charts were used to determine their BMI percentiles. An
appropriately sized bladder cuff of a sphygmomanometer was used in
obtaining the blood pressure,

RESULTS: A total of 259 normal-weight adolescents were recruited.
The mean ± SD of participants was 13.6 ± 2.3 years. The prevalence of
MetS among participants was 2.7%. The most common
cardiometabolic risk factors were central obesity and elevated blood
pressure in 7.7% and 7.3% of participants. Physical activity was
significantly associated with a lower prevalence of MetS. A family
history of hypertension and diabetes in first-degree relatives was
significantly associated with MetS.

CONCLUSION: Metabolic syndrome was documented among
apparently healthy normal-weight adolescent. A family history of
hypertension or diabetes and physical inactivity were significantly
associated with metabolic syndrome in study participants.
WAJM 2024; 41 (1): 74 - 81.

KEYWORDS: Metabolic Syndrome; Adolescents; Normal Weight;
cardiometabolic risk factors