Anthropometric characteristics and prevalence of metabolic syndrome among in-school adolescents in Gusau urban area, Zamfara State

Abstract

Background There is an increasing prevalence of metabolic syndrome among adolescents globally. In Nigeria, early detection may be a promising and preventive measure in nutrition sciences. Objectives This study assesses the association between anthropometric characteristics and prevalence of metabolic syndrome among adolescents in Gusau urban area, Zamfara State. Methods The study is cross-sectional in design, where 400 respondents within 10-19 years were selected from 6 private and 5 public secondary schools in Gusau Urban Area, Zamfara State using stratified proportionate and random sampling techniques. Anthropometry was conducted using standard instruments and methods. BMI-for-age was calculated using WHO AnthroPlus. Biochemical parameters of Metabolic syndrome (MetS) were measured: blood pressure, fasting blood sugar (FBS), total cholesterol (TCH), triglycerides (TRIG), high-density lipoproteins (HDL), and low-density lipoproteins (LDL) were measured using standard methods. Results Mean MetS components were within the normal range. There was severe stunting of 19.4% and 6.8% among males and females of 15-19 years respectively. The overall prevalence of MetS was 3.0%. Low HDL was identified as the most common MetS components and was particularly high among females, highlighting the importance of monitoring these components in adolescent health assessments. Conclusion In conclusion, this paper has provided baseline prevalence data on MetS among adolescents in an underserved urban area in Nigeria. Since some adolescents are malnourished, diet and lifestyle as modifiable factors should be the pivot for nutrition education intervention for in-school adolescents.