An estimated 30% to 35% of U.S. college students are affected by overweight and obesity, placing them at a substantial risk for metabolic dysfunction. However, little monitoring for metabolic dysfunction seems to be occurring in college health facilities. This study reviewed data obtained in a university student health center to determine whether blood pressure, triglyceride and high-density lipoprotein (HDL) levels, blood glucose, and waist circumference measurements indicate a prevalence of metabolic syndrome in this population. The overall prevalence of metabolic syndrome in the current sample was only 10%; however, the rate of having any metabolic abnormality was 43%, with the students having at least 1 component of metabolic syndrome. In addition, 14.3% of the students had 2 components of metabolic syndrome.
The authors report no relationships with business or industry that would represent a conflict of interest.
1Terri Keown, MSN, FNP-BC, is a family nurse practitioner at Minute Clinic in Chattanooga, TN.
2Christine B. Smith, PhD, FNP-BC, is an assistant professor and coordinator of the family nurse practitioner program at the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga.
3Martina S. Harris, EdD, RN, is an assistant professor at the university.
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