Diabetes Metab J.  2021 Nov;45(6):880-889. 10.4093/dmj.2020.0185.

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

• Chae J
• Seo MY
• Kim SH
• Park MJ

• KMID: 2522727
• DOI: http://doi.org/10.4093/dmj.2020.0185

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-high-density 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.

Keyword

Adolescent; Diet; Exercise; Metabolic syndrome; Smoking

Figure

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  Fig. 1. Trends in lifestyle factors among Korean adolescents over 12 years (2007 to 2018). aP<0.01, bP<0.001.

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  Fig. 2. Trends in the prevalence of metabolic syndrome (MetS) and its components among Korean adolescents over 12 years (2007 to 2018). Hyper-TG, hypertriglyceridemia; Hypo-HDL-c, hypo-HDL-cholesterolemia. aP<0.05, bP<0.001.

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