Paramedical Sciences and Military Health

Introduction: By progression of sedentary life style in societies, increased obesity related metabolic disorders such as metabolic syndrome, insulin resistance and diabetes. Metabolic syndrome as a precursor of other chronic diseases targeted for special consideration as a worldwide public health challenge. Metabolic syndrome accompanied with a collection of risk factors like abdominal obesity, glucose, triglycerides levels, blood pressure and HDL deficiency. Etiology of metabolic syndrome is a complex and that is caused by the interaction of genetic and environmental factors. Due to lack of studies on military personnel, this study, investigated prevalence of metabolic syndrome in four age group among air guard personnel.
Methods and Materials: This cross-sectional study was conducted in 2015. During the study, Fasting glucose levels, blood lipids, weight, height, body mass index, waist circumference and blood pressure were measured between 1, 000 air guard officers that referred to annual health monitoring program. Then, the prevalence of metabolic syndrome was assayed with two International Diabetes Federation (IDF) and Adult Treatment Panel III (ATPIII) criteria.
Results: The data show that12 participants (1.2%) were under high blood pressure, and 56 (6/5%) were at risk for high blood pressure. Due to High levels of body mass index and waist circumference, 5 (0.5%) of officers were at risk of diabetes. Abnormal triglycerides and cholesterol were measured in 411 (41.1%) and 100 (10%) participants respectively. Serum HDL levels, body mass index and waist circumference was determined, and the results show that in 110 cases (11%) and 29 (9/2%) 110 (11%) respectively positive to metabolic syndrome risk. Finally, according to IDF criteria, 44 patients (4.4%) and ATPIII criteria, 32 cases (3.2 %) were identified as metabolic syndrome
Discussion and Conclusion: Despite the relatively high prevalence of metabolic syndrome in our country, The results show that incidence of metabolic syndrome risk factors among the officers of air guard is in low levels which may related to, military lifestyle. Due to the link between metabolic syndrome and other complications, the three golden orders: increased physical activity, weight control, and diet are suggested for prevention. A comprehensive program to train susceptible cases and treatment strategies is recommended.