Evaluation of the relationship between self-reported physical activity with metabolic syndrome and its components in apparently healthy women

Abstract

Introduction. Metabolic syndrome, a set of metabolic anomalies that include insulin resistance, central obesity, dyslipidemia, hypertension, and inflammation, is an important tool to explore in relation to factors associated to cardiometabolic disease.

Objective. The aim of this study was to evaluate the relationship of the levels of self-reported physical activity and the International Physical Activity Questionnaire items with metabolic syndrome and variables related to cardiovascular risk in 89 women.

Materials and methods. The International Physical Activity Questionnaire short version was applied to classify the subjects into three categories: insufficient, sufficient and very active physical activity. Metabolic syndrome was assessed according to International Diabetes Federation criteria. Biochemical and anthropometrical parameters were measured.

Results. Twenty-two participants (23%) presented metabolic syndrome and 66 women (74.2%) were classified in the insufficient physical activity category. No association was found between the insufficient physical activity and metabolic syndrome. Inverse correlations were found among the days and minutes per week of moderate-intensity physical activity A with waist circumference (rho= −0.327, and rho= −0.313, p< 0.005, respectively), and body mass index (rho= −0.262, and rho= −0.218, p< 0.05, respectively).

Conclusion. A high prevalence of insufficient physical activity was found in the study participants, but this was not associated with metabolic syndrome. Moderate physical activity International Physical Activity Questionnaire items but not vigorous correlate inversely with anthropometrical markers related to cardiovascular risk.