Screening of Modifiable Risk Factors of Metabolic Syndrome among Adolescents in a Selected School, Chennai: A Descriptive Cross-Sectional Survey
Abstract: Background: Metabolic syndrome (MS) is a cluster of central adiposity, high blood pressure, hyperglycemia and dyslipidemia that begins in childhood and predicts adult cardiovascular disease and type 2 diabetes. Its modifiable precursors can be detected in schools with simple, non-invasive measurements. Objectives: To assess the biophysiological risk factors of MS among adolescent boys and girls in a selected school in Chennai and to compare them between the sexes. Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional survey was conducted among 141 adolescents aged 13-17 years (75 boys, 66 girls) selected by stratified random sampling by class from a higher secondary school. Weight, height, body mass index (BMI), waist, hip and neck circumference and blood pressure were measured, and dietary habits and physical activity were assessed. Data were analysed using frequencies, percentages, means, standard deviations, independent samples t-test and one-way ANOVA. Results: Overweight or obesity was present in 18.7% (girls 28.8%, boys 9.6%), whereas 48.9% were underweight. A high-risk waist circumference was found in 35.5%, and 24.1% had systolic blood pressure in the elevated or stage 1 hypertension range. Physical activity was low in 63.8% (girls 77.3%, boys 52.0%), and dietary habits were moderate in 75.9%. Girls had a significantly higher BMI (21.50 vs 18.92 kg/m2, p = .002) and hip circumference (p = .029), while boys were taller (p
Keywords: metabolic syndrome; adolescents; obesity; waist circumference; blood pressure; physical inactivity; school screening
How to Cite?: R. Dhanalakshmi, Dr. R. Sudha, Dr. Prema Janardan, "Screening of Modifiable Risk Factors of Metabolic Syndrome among Adolescents in a Selected School, Chennai: A Descriptive Cross-Sectional Survey", Volume 15 Issue 10, October 2026, International Journal of Science and Research (IJSR), Pages: 1102-1106, https://www.ijsr.net/getabstract.php?paperid=SR261016141509, DOI: https://dx.doi.org/10.21275/SR261016141509