[Leisure-time physical activity and its association with metabolic risk factors in Tehranian adults: TLGS]

ABSTRACT

Leisure-time physical activity [LTPA], as a lifestyle-related behavior, could be a preventive factor for metabolic syndrome [MetS]. We aimed to examine the association between LTPA and MetS among the adults who participated in the Tehran Lipid and Glucose Study [TLGS]. In the present cross-sectional study, 4665 adults [1976 males and 2686 females], aged 20-70 years, were selected by multi-stage random cluster sampling from among TLGS participants. Subjects were classified according to their BMI. LTPA was determined via a validated and Modifiable Activity Questionnaire [MAQ], and MetS, according to the JIS criteria. Prevalence of the MetS was higher in obese groups [58.2%] compared to the overweight [36.6%] and normal weight [6%] ones [p<0.001]. Normal weight subjects [18.1%] were physically more active than other groups. In the normal weight group with light LTPA, the risk of lower levels of HDL-C and elevated levels of TG were higher than in individuals with vigorous LTPA [OR 1.15; CI95% 1.05, 2.33] [OR 1.46; CI95% 1.01, 2.14]. In the overweight group, the probability of elevated levels of FBS was higher among individuals with moderate LTPA than in those with vigorous LTPA [OR 1.65 CI95% 1.37, 3.23], and there was also an inverse association between light LTPA and MetS [OR 2.08; CI95% 1.03, 4.21]. This study confirmed that increased levels of LTPA are associated with a decreased likelihood of any inappropriate changes in components of Mets and the occurrence of Mets