Aims and objectivesTo examine the gender‐specific lifestyles of adults with metabolic syndrome in the Taiwanese community.BackgroundMany studies show different prevalence of metabolic syndrome in males and females; however, few studies have investigated gender‐specific lifestyle risk factors, which are important for effectively reducing prevalence.DesignA cross‐sectional study design was used.MethodsBetween 2012 and 2015, a total of 1,066 individuals were recruited in northern Taiwan. Data were collected by questionnaires and analysed by descriptive statistics, chi‐square tests and logistic regression. This study followed the STROBE guidelines.ResultsThe prevalence of metabolic syndrome was 40.8% in men and 36.0% in women. Women had healthier dietary habits, a higher rate of moderate–vigorous physical activity, and a lower rate of smoking and obesity than men. Men, who were overweight or obese, lacked vigorous physical activity, often consumed excess amounts of salt and fat, and seldom consumed appropriate amounts of protein tended to have metabolic syndrome. Women with an unhealthy metabolism tended to be overweight or obese and seldom consumed dairy products.ConclusionsMen, who had normal body weight, performed vigorous physical activity, seldom consumed excess amounts of salt and fat, and often consumed appropriate amounts of protein tended not to have metabolic syndrome. Women with a healthy metabolism were of normal body weight and often consumed dairy products. There exist gender differences in health habits with metabolic syndrome.Relevance to clinical practiceAlthough the associated risk factors differed between men and women, controlling body weight and maintaining a healthy lifestyle may reduce the risk of metabolic syndrome.
Lifestyle factors may significantly affect the development of metabolic syndrome in people who are overweight or obese. Our findings indicate that practicing healthy lifestyle behaviors may be the best way to prevent metabolic syndrome. Public health interventions promoting smoking cessation, regular exercise, and good dietary habits can be created and conducted at relatively low cost. At the community level, all nurses can prioritize such interventions for their overweight and obese patients.
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