Metabolic syndrome, obesity, and related risk factors among college men and women.

OBJECTIVES: The primary objective of this study was to characterize the prevalence of overweight/obesity, metabolic syndrome (MbS) and its criteria, and nutrient intakes of college-age men and women via a large-scale screening. PARTICIPANTS AND METHODS: From August 2005 to July 2008, 2,722 subjects were recruited for the ongoing, cross-sectional Young Adult Health Risk Screening Initiative project. Anthropometric, biochemical, clinical, and dietary data were collected. RESULTS: Approximately one-half of men and more than one-quarter of women were overweight or obese. MbS was identified in 9.9% of men and 3.0% of women; 77% of men and 54% of women had at least 1 MbS criterion. Intakes of saturated fat, magnesium, and fiber, as well as body mass index and reported physical activity levels were related to MbS. CONCLUSIONS: Because of high rates of overweight/obesity and MbS, college-age adults are at risk for developing chronic diseases including diabetes mellitus and cardiovascular disease.

The University of New Hampshire's Young Adult Health Risk Screening Initiative.

Few comprehensive studies exist that evaluate the nutrient intake and health indicators of college-aged students. This article describes the University of New Hampshire's Young Adult Health Risk Screening Initiative and examines results from participants evaluated from September 2005 through July 2007. This cross-sectional study included 1,701 students who enrolled in an introductory nutrition course, met age requirements (18 to 24 years), agreed to participate, and completed related assessments. All evaluation components were built into the semester-long course design, thus minimizing participant burden. Anthropometric measurements, blood lipids, blood glucose, and blood pressure were measured directly by research staff. Online dietary intake was self-reported and evaluated using a software program. Health risk data indicate high rates of overweight (33%), elevated low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (53%), and elevated systolic (47%) and diastolic blood pressures (39%). Less than 30 minutes of physical activity per day was reported by 28% of respondents. The majority of males (94%) and females (73%) exceeded sodium guidelines. Although females were less likely to be overweight than males, few met recommended intakes for vitamin D (26%), calcium (25%), potassium (35%), iron (31%), and folate (32%). Undergraduate and graduate dietetics students assisted with biological assessments, data entry, and record maintenance. Data inclusion rates ranged between 84% and 94% for various measurements. The methods employed in this study could be modified by institutions interested in profiling the health status of students. Results have led to an enhanced understanding of the nutrition practices and health status of this population and will serve to inform university programs and policies.