The latent classes and factors affecting quality of life among South Koreans with metabolic syndrome

Abstract

The purpose of this study is to identify latent classes involving the health behaviors of patients with metabolic syndrome and to examine the effects of demographic characteristics and health-related lifestyles on their quality of life. The data was sourced from the database of the 2013 Korea health panel survey. Health behavior variables (smoking, drinking, body mass index, and physical activities) were dichotomously recategorized for latent class analysis. Two latent classes of metabolic syndrome, named 'low physical actor' and 'low physical actor with smoking and alcohol' were identified. Both latent classes showed statistically significant differences in demographic characteristics and EQ-5D index. Additionally, there were differences in the factors affecting quality of life between latent classes. This study's findings suggest that a tailored intervention based on features of the latent classes is required to improve the lifestyle and quality of life of metabolic syndrome patients.