Exploring the relationship between metabolic syndrome and vestibular dysfunction: NHANES data and Mendelian randomization analysis

Metabolic syndrome (MetS) is associated with an increased risk of various health issues, with emerging evidence suggesting a potential connection to vestibular dysfunction. However, the nature of this relationship remains unclear. This study aims to evaluate the association between MetS and vestibular dysfunction using data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) and Mendelian Randomization (MR) analysis. NHANES data from 1999 to 2004 were analyzed for participants' MetS status and vestibular function, defined by the Romberg test. Sociodemographic and health-related factors were adjusted for in a multivariate regression model. MR analysis using genome-wide association studies data aimed to explore the causality of the observed associations. The initial NHANES analysis indicated a correlation between MetS and vestibular dysfunction, which attenuated upon multivariate adjustment. MR analysis did not support a significant causal link between MetS and vestibular dysfunction but identified low high-density lipoprotein cholesterol and hypertension as potential vestibular risk factors. Our findings indicate no strong causal relationship between MetS and vestibular dysfunction. However, components of MetS, particularly low high-density lipoprotein cholesterol and hypertension, may independently contribute to vestibular dysfunction risk, suggesting potential targets for preventive interventions.