Trends and Risk Factors of Metabolic Syndrome among Korean Adolescents, 2007 to 2018

Abstract

Background: There is a lack of recent research on the changes in risk factors for metabolic syndrome (MetS) in the Asian pediatric population. We aimed to determine the 12-year trends in the prevalence of MetS and relevant lifestyle factors such as smoking, exercise, and calorie intake among Korean adolescents. Methods: We investigated trends in MetS and lifestyle factors among 6,308 adolescents aged 12 to 18 years from the Korea National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey, 2007 to 2018. Results: The prevalence of MetS was stable from 2007 to 2018 (1.7% to 2.2%). There were significant increases in the prevalence of central obesity (from 8.1% to 11.2%, P=0.012) and hyperglycemia (from 5.3% to 10.4%, P<0.001) and decreases in hypo-highdensity lipoprotein (HDL)-cholesterolemia (from 22.4% to 14.8%, P<0.001). Total calorie intake and calorie intake from fat significantly increased (P<0.001), whereas calorie intake from carbohydrates significantly decreased (P<0.001) during the study period. The proportions of tobacco smokers and regular walkers significantly decreased from 2007 to 2018. After controlling for all covariates, total calorie intake was positively correlated with waist circumference (P<0.05). HDL-cholesterol was negatively associated with carbohydrate consumption (P<0.01) and positively associated with fat consumption (P<0.001). Regular walking and regular strength training were associated with lower waist circumference (P<0.05). Smoking was associated with lower fasting glucose levels (P<0.01). Conclusion:Although the prevalence rate of MetS is stable among Korean adolescents, the prevalence of central obesity and hyperglycemia has increased greatly in the recent decade. Public education on proper dietary intake and lifestyle modification is required.

Trends and Risk Factors of Metabolic Syndrome among Korean Adolescents, 2007 to 2018 (Diabetes Metab J 2021;45:880-9)

“…In this article, entitled “Trends and risk factors of metabolic syndrome among Korean adolescents, 2007 to 2018” [ 4 ], the rate of metabolic syndrome among adolescents aged 12 to 18 years did not change significantly from 1.7% in 2007 to 2.2% in 2018. However, during that period, the components of metabolic syndrome showed statistically significant changes (abdominal obesity, 8.1% to 11.2%; hyperglycemia, 5.3% to 10.4%; hypo-high density lipoprotein-cholesterolemia, 22.4% to 14.8%).…”

Trends and Risk Factors of Metabolic Syndrome among Korean Adolescents, 2007 to 2018 (Diabetes Metab J 2021;45:880-9)

“…We want to thank Dr. Dae Jung Kim for his interest in and critical comments on our recent paper, “Trends and risk factors of metabolic syndrome among Korean adolescents, 2007 to 2018” [ 1 ]. We also appreciate the opportunity to respond to Dr. Dae Jung Kim’s letter submitted to the Diabetes and Metabolism Journal .…”

“…In this study, a decreasing rate of smoking among Korean adolescents over a span of 12 years was noted. In addition, controversial findings have shown that adolescent smokers have lower fasting blood sugar levels [ 1 ]. Although the data were not included in this study, smoking was not significantly associated with the overall odds of metabolic syndrome in our study population.…”

Commentary on "Single point insulin sensitivity estimator for predicting type 2 diabetes mellitus in obese adolescents"

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Recent studies implied that an increase in calorie consumption and a decrease in physical activity among Korean teenagers contributed to an in central obesity, dyslipidemia, metabolic syndrome, and type 2 diabetes over the last decade. [1][2][3][4][5][6][7] Obesityrelated insulin resistance is a key pathophysiology of diabetes development. 8) Various insulin resistance indices, such as Homeostasis Model Assessment for Insulin Resistance, insulin sensitivity index, triglyceride to high-density lipoprotein-cholesterol ratio, and triglyceride and glucose index have been proposed to identify and stratify insulin resistance in obese populations and to aid in the early detection and prevention of type 2 diabetes mellitus.

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“…Recent studies implied that an increase in calorie consumption and a decrease in physical activity among Korean teenagers have contributed to an increase in central obesity, dyslipidemia, metabolic syndrome, and type 2 diabetes over the last decade [ 1 - 7 ]. Obesity-related insulin resistance is a key pathophysiology of diabetes development [ 8 ].…”