Predictors of Metabolic Syndrome in Polish Women-The Role of Body Composition and Sociodemographic Factors

Abstract

Background: The increasing prevalence of overweight and obesity worldwide is one of the most serious public health challenges, reaching epidemic proportions. Excessive body weight is often accompanied by metabolic disorders such as insulin resistance, atherogenic dyslipidaemia and hypertension-collectively known as metabolic syndrome. This cross-sectional study aimed to identify predictors of metabolic syndrome in women using logistic regression analysis based on selected sociodemographic, anthropometric, and lifestyle variables. Methods: The study included 250 women aged 23-85 recruited in the Podkarpackie region of Poland. Data on sociodemographic characteristics and smoking status were collected via a questionnaire. Physical activity and sedentary behaviours were assessed using the Global Physical Activity Questionnaire. Body composition was measured using bioelectrical impedance analysis. Fasting capillary blood samples and blood pressure measurements were obtained by qualified medical staff in accordance with standard procedures. Results: Obesity was strongly associated with metabolic syndrome components, particularly abnormal blood pressure (66.3%) and fasting glucose (64%), both of which were statistically significant (p < 0.01). Age was a significant predictor of metabolic syndrome (OR = 1.06; p < 0.01) and its components, including hypertension, dysglycaemia and dyslipidaemia. Waist-to-hip ratio was strongly linked to metabolic syndrome (OR = 356.97; p < 0.01) and obesity (OR = 5.89 × 10³⁰; p < 0.001); however, these exceptionally high values should be interpreted with caution, as they may reflect statistical artifacts due to model instability or sample characteristics, rather than a meaningful or generalizable association. Higher body fat mass was associated with an increased risk of obesity, hypertension and dysglycaemia (OR = 1.42, 1.06 and 1.06 respectively; p < 0.01). Conclusions: These results emphasise the significant role of obesity as a risk factor for metabolic syndrome in women, highlighting the need for personalised preventive strategies that consider lifestyle and sociodemographic factors, such as targeted health education, promotion of physical activity, and dietary counselling adapted to the needs of women at risk.

Keywords: body composition; metabolic syndrome; obesity; obesity prevention; women.