| Populations who do not engage in regular physical activity (PA) increase their risk of developing metabolic syndrome (MetS). PA is a key determinant of energy expenditure, and thus is fundamental to energy balance and weight control. Besides PA, genetic factors, smoking, menopausal status, alcohol consumption and progressive weight gain also contribute significantly to the risk of developing the disease.;The purpose of this study was to compare the risk factors associated with metabolic syndrome among the three major ethnic groups in the United States. The risk factors of MetS include cardiovascular disease, diabetes, hypertension, obesity, hyperlipidemia and hyperinsulinemia. It has been proven that increases in PA, which will change body composition and changes in the diet can decrease the risk factors of MetS.;The data that were utilized came from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) 1999-2002, conducted among the civilian, non-institutionalized population of the United States. The data utilized included sociodemographic data such as ethnicity and age; anthropometric measurements (waist circumference and body mass index), dietary intake data, and blood lipid profiles. Data analysis was conducted using the SUDAAN software package. All parameters were compared using paired t tests and chi square tests. The significance level used was 0.05. The findings in this research indicated there was significance among the total cholesterol in each ethnic group. Also, there was a significant difference in the dietary fiber specify among the ethnic groups. It is recommended that a reduction in the waist circumference and body mass index along with a lowered blood pressure and cholesterol levels are critical in reducing the prevalence of MetS. |
