Assessment of the Risk of Insulin Resistance in Workers Classified as Metabolically Healthy Obese

Abstract

Introduction and Objectives: Obesity constitutes a significant public health concern and is frequently linked to metabolic dysfunctions, particularly insulin resistance (IR). Nevertheless, a subset of obese individuals, referred to as metabolically healthy obese (MHO), do not exhibit overt metabolic abnormalities. The present study aims to assess the risk of developing IR among MHO workers and to explore the determinants contributing to this risk. Methods: This cross-sectional investigation utilized data from a cohort of 68,884 obese workers across multiple occupational sectors in Spain. The classification of participants as MHO was based on the number of metabolic syndrome components, in accordance with the criteria established by the National Cholesterol Education Program Adult Treatment Panel III (NCEP-ATPIII). Anthropometric, clinical, and biochemical parameters-including body mass index (BMI), waist circumference, lipid profile, glycemic levels, and blood pressure-were systematically assessed. The likelihood of developing IR was estimated through various validated risk assessment models. Results: The analysis indicates that, despite having a relatively favorable metabolic profile, individuals classified as MHO also show signs of metabolic deterioration, such as an increased risk of insulin resistance. Key risk factors such as physical inactivity, low adherence to the Mediterranean diet, and socioeconomic disparities were identified as significant contributors to the transition from the MHO phenotype to a metabolically unhealthy state. Logistic regression analyses corroborated that insufficient physical activity and suboptimal dietary habits were strongly associated with an elevated risk of IR. Conclusions: The findings underscore the dynamic and potentially transient nature of the MHO phenotype, emphasizing the necessity of proactive monitoring and early preventive strategies. Encouraging physical activity, promoting adherence to a nutritionally balanced diet, and implementing workplace health initiatives emerge as critical measures to attenuate the risk of IR and metabolic deterioration in MHO individuals. Future longitudinal studies are warranted to enhance risk stratification and to formulate tailored preventive interventions.

Keywords: Mediterranean diet; insulin resistance; metabolically healthy obese; physical activity; sociodemographic variables; tobacco consumption.

Figure 1

Flowchart of the participants in the study.