THE IMPACT OF LIFESTYLE MODIFICATION ON METABOLIC SYNDROME AMONG MOH STAFF

Abstract

INTRODUCTION/BACKGROUND
Metabolic syndrome (MetS) represents a pressing global public health concern, marked by a constellation of metabolic irregularities such as elevated blood pressure, dyslipidaemia, elevated fasting blood glucose and central obesity, heightening the risk for type 2 diabetes mellitus and cardiovascular disease. Despite evidence endorsing lifestyle interventions, local data on their effectiveness in Malaysia are scarce.

METHODOLOGY
This study explores the impact of lifestyle modifications on MetS among Ministry of Health (MOH) staff at Hospital Shah Alam (HSAS) to guide policy-level interventions for improved public health outcomes. Using data from KOSPEN 2020 at HSAS, this cohort study focused on lifestyle modifications from July 2021 to July 2022, comprising four arms: the diet group, exercise group, exercise + diet group, and control group. Due to challenges with recruitment and adherence, the sample size was limited, and the follow-up period was abbreviated.

RESULTS
With 36 participants recruited (30.6% males, 69.4% females; mean age: 40.28 years), no significant differences in key parameters were noted at 3 and 6 months. However, during the 9-month reassessment, the diet group demonstrated a significant mean reduction in SBP (P = 0.005). On the other hand, the diet + exercise group exhibited decreased FBS compared to the diet (P = 0.037) and control groups (P <0.001).

CONCLUSION
Despite constrained statistical significance likely attributed to high dropout rates and adherence issues, dietary control, exercise, or their combination indicate efficacy in managing MetS. Further methodically structured research is imperative to deepen our comprehension of these relationships.