The Metabolic Syndrome in Relation to Nutritional Status and Food Consumption Patterns among Adults in Vietnam

In Vietnam, disease patterns are experiencing a significant transition with a rapid increase in the prevalence of Non-Communicable Diseases (NCDs) and a decrease in communicable diseases. These non-communicable diseases often include heart disease, stroke, and diabetes. The main factors contributing to the increase of these NCDs are a combination of interconnected metabolic abnormalities, known as metabolic syndrome (MetS). The research aims to conduct a systematic review to determine the prevalence of MetS among the Vietnamese population and its contributing factors. In addition, the relationship between MetS and nutritional status among Vietnamese adults will be assessed by identifying the healthy physical measures of a person’s size and functional capabilities and the association with dietary patterns.

Outcomes

Based on the systematic review results, it was found that metabolic syndrome (MetS) is a common morbidity in Vietnam. Asian body mass index (BMI) and waist circumference were the two most prevalent criteria used for diagnosing MetS among Vietnamese adults, where all the studies assessing MetS among children and adolescents used the International Diabetic Federation standard for paediatrics. In adults, MetS was found with a higher prevalence among females, people living in urban areas, and people with obesity. Low cholesterol was the most prevalent component of MetS in Vietnam and could be considered an early detectable indicator for screening MetS in adult populations.

Research Outputs

Dang, A.K., Le, H.T., Nguyen, G.T., Mamun, A.A., Do, K.N., Nguyen, L.H.T., Thai, P.K. and Phung, D., 2022. Prevalence of metabolic syndrome and its related factors among Vietnamese people: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Diabetes & Metabolic Syndrome: Clinical Research & Reviews, 16(4), p.102477.

Dang, A.K., Truong, M.T., Le, H.T., Nguyen, K.C., Le, M.B., Nguyen, L.T., Do, K.N., Nguyen, L.H.T., Mamun, A.A., Phung, D. and Thai, P.K., 2022. Anthropometric cut-off values for detecting the presence of metabolic syndrome and its multiple components among adults in Vietnam: The role of novel indices. Nutrients, 14(19), p.4024.

Research Impact

Findings from this research will provide valuable evidence to enhance metabolic syndrome (MetS) prevention and treatment in the community and clinical settings. In addition, it may help the authorities formulate and implement appropriate policies to reduce the prevalence of MetS and its driving factors.

Awards and prizes

• 2022 Dang Van Ngu Award - This award recognises outstanding young researchers who have an important impact in the public health field, Hanoi Medical University.