Atividade física, comportamento sedentário e componentes da síndrome metabólica em idosos

Abstract

Metabolic syndrome (MS) is a complex condition characterized by cardiometabolic risk factors such as central obesity, hypertension, dyslipidemia, and hyperglycemia, which become more prevalent with aging. This study aimed to analyze the association of physical activity (PA) and sedentary behavior (SB), independently and in combination, with the components of MS in older adults. This cross-sectional study, part of the Longitudinal Study of Elderly Health in Alcobaça, was conducted with a sample of 473 older adults aged 60 years or more, of both sexes, residing in the urban area and registered in the Family Health Strategy of the municipality. Sociodemographic information, anthropometric measurements, laboratory data, and behavioral data were collected. The results showed that longer time spent in SB was associated with central obesity (OR 2.85; 95% CI: 1.52–5.25) and hypertension (OR 1.86; 95% CI: 1.23–2.85). In the combined analysis, insufficiently active older adults with longer SB time had higher odds of developing two (OR 3.90; 95% CI: 1.46–10.42) to four components (OR 4.18; 95% CI: 1.12–15.62). Even sufficiently active older adults with longer SB time showed higher odds for central obesity (OR 3.44; 95% CI: 1.51–7.87), hypertension (OR 2.30; 95% CI: 1.30–4.05), and low HDL-c levels (OR 1.84; 95% CI: 1.03–3.28). It is concluded that SB is a determinant factor in the prevalence of MS in older adults, with implications for public health policies that promote frequent interruptions in sedentary periods and encourage regular physical activity.