Study Highlights Metabolic Syndrome Surge in Older Mexicans

A recent study published in Salud Pública en México reveals a significant increase in metabolic syndrome among older Mexican adults, now affecting 77.4% of individuals aged 60 and older. This rise is especially notable among women, smokers, and those with obesity, indicating a critical public health concern.

Metabolic syndrome, characterized by elevated blood pressure, high blood sugar, excess abdominal fat, and abnormal cholesterol or triglyceride levels, significantly heightens the risk of heart disease, stroke, and Type 2 diabetes, according to Mayo Clinic. The study emphasizes the urgent need for nationwide prevention and management strategies, including improved diet, increased physical activity, and targeted medical intervention.

The study highlights a notable gender disparity: 71.2% of Mexican men and 83.7% of older Mexican women suffer from metabolic syndrome, with women being twice as likely to develop it. This discrepancy is attributed to macroeconomic changes and sociocultural factors that reduce physical activity among women, contributing to higher obesity rates and greater prevalence of metabolic syndrome. The study references the review, Global Gender Disparities in Obesity, which shows higher obesity rates in women, particularly in developing countries.

Smokers are also at higher risk, being three times more likely to develop metabolic syndrome. Smoking contributes to increased blood pressure, waist circumference, and triglycerides, while reducing HDL cholesterol. Active smoking is associated with a 26% higher risk of metabolic syndrome compared to nonsmokers, with smokers experiencing more severe insulin resistance and elevated insulin levels, further increasing the risk of Type 2 diabetes, as noted in the Active Smoking and Risk of Metabolic Syndrome publication.

Salud Pública’s study links obesity with elevated fasting plasma glucose levels and hypertension. Pedro Torres Ambriz, Endocrinologist, points out that the current prevalence rate of 77.4% reflects a true increase from the 72.9% reported in 2017, rather than variations in measurement criteria. Changes in diet and sedentary lifestyles are identified as contributing factors.

Using the International Diabetes Federation’s consensus definition of metabolic syndrome, the study notes potential anomalies in waist circumference measurements that could affect prevalence estimates. To address this, it calls for public health policies focused on preventing risk factors and developing genetic risk tests for early detection. Ambriz advocates for a national obesity and diabetes prevention program that includes comprehensive strategies across all government sectors, promotes healthy eating and physical activity, and integrates extensive informational campaigns and new food legislation.