The Association of Chronic Stress and Metabolic Syndrome in Mexican American Women Living in a Rural Community along the US-Mexico Border

Background: The prevalence of metabolic syndrome (MetS) is high in Latina women. Obesity is a major contributor to the development of cardiometabolic risk factors. Little is known about the contributions of other associated health factors in the development of MetS. Purpose: Describe the differences and associations in chronic stress, social support, health behaviors, and the presence of MetS in Mexican American women living in a rural community along the California U.S.-Mexico border. Method: This cross-sectional study involved 150 women of Mexican origin (Mage = 44.80 years); 66.7% spoke Spanish, and 70% had public health insurance. A scoring criteria was used to determine MetS. Chronic stressors were measured via Chronic Stress Burden Scale. Results: Of 86 (57%) participants with MetS, nearly 90% were obese; of 64 participants who did not have MetS, 75% were obese. The mean difference in the number of chronic stressors was statistically significantly higher among participants with MetS (2.47 [SD = 1.66]) than among those without MetS (1.94 [SD = 1.39]). The odds of having MetS increased 26% for each increase in the number of chronic stressors (OR: 1.26; 95% CI: 1.01, 1.7). Participants with MetS had twice the odds of being physically inactive or engaged in unhealthy eating. Conclusion: Early recognition of cardiometabolic risks and improving health behaviors are essential to avoid adverse health consequences for Mexican American women. Implications for Nursing Practice: Study findings may help nurses and other healthcare providers identify Mexican American women’s psychosocial needs and develop appropriate evidence-based interventions for promoting healthy behaviors.