Abstract

BRODSCHI, D et al. Particularities of metabolic syndrome in an elderly subpopulation. Rev. argent. endocrinol. metab. [online]. 2014, vol.51, n.3, pp.130-135. ISSN 1851-3034.

Introduction: The metabolic syndrome (MS) denotes an association of abnormalities that increase the risk of cardiovascular disease. With the intention of decreasing this risk, international organizations have dropped the normal range for various parameters, with a consequent increase in the diagnosis of MS. Although the changes related to age are well documented, none of these parameters has been age-adapted. Aims: to characterize MS in the elderly population and to establish possible gender differences. Materials and methods: We performed a prospective study in patients who presented at the Department of Endocrinology of the Healthcare Unit Dr. Cesar Milstein. Of the total population, 68.8 % were women and the average age was 73 ± 6 years. For the diagnosis of MS, we used the 2009 Joint Interim Statement diagnostic criteria. Information was collected on previous history and medication, and laboratory analyses were performed. The waist / height ratio was also measured. Mean ± standard deviation (SD) and proportions were calculated. For comparisons between men and women, the Student test and Chi-squared test were used. Results: Of the total population, 42.9 % fulfilled 3 criteria for MS, 33.8 % fulfilled 4 criteria and 23.4 % fulfilled 5, with similar distribution in men and women. According to body mass index (BMI), 32.5 % of the population had overweight, 35 % were grade I obese, 22 % were grade II and 9 % were grade III. As regards waist circumference, 98.7 % of the total population exceeded the established cutoffs. The waist/ height ratio exceeded normal values in both genders, being significantly higher in women (p = 0.003). Conclusions: In the elderly, there are no gender differences in the number of components of MS. As for waist circumference, values were similar in both men and women. This finding could lead to redefine the cutoff value in aged woman. The waist / height ratio, a surrogate marker of cardiovascular disease, was found to be increased in the entire study population and could be another parameter to be considered for diagnosis of MS. Rev Argent Endocrinol Metab 51:130-135, 2014

Keywords : Metabolic syndrome; Elderly; Waist / height ratio; Cardiovascular risk.

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