Riesgos de síndrome metabólico a partir de las medidas antropométricas en conductores - terminal terrestre Machala

Metabolic syndrome is a condition characterized by the presence of metabolic and cardiovascular alterations such as central obesity, dyslipidemia, hypertension, and insulin resistance, which increase the risk of chronic diseases. Its diagnosis is established with the presence of glucose intolerance, type 2 diabetes mellitus, or at least two of the following conditions: hypertension ≥140/90 mmHg, hypertriglyceridemia ≥150 mg/dl, reduced HDL cholesterol, increased abdominal circumference (≥90 cm in men and ≥85 cm in women), or a body mass index (BMI) ≥30 kg/m². This study aimed to determine the risk of metabolic syndrome based on anthropometric measurements in drivers at the Machala Bus Terminal. A quantitative, descriptive, and cross-sectional study was conducted, in which a structured survey was applied, and blood pressure, weight, height, waist, and hip circumference were measured. Measures of central tendency and dispersion were calculated, and the Z-test was applied to compare BMI according to age group. The sample consisted of 98% men and 2% women, with an average age of 45 years and a mean professional driving experience of 12.5 years. The average BMI was 30.8 kg/m², with overweight and obesity observed in 80% of drivers with more than 10 years in the profession. 47.5% had normal blood pressure but were overweight, while those with hypertension also had an elevated BMI. The Z-test showed a significant difference (Z=12.8) in the relationship between BMI and age groups. It is concluded that there is a high risk of metabolic syndrome among the evaluated drivers, related to overweight and obesity, making anthropometric measurements a key indicator for the early detection of this condition, highlighting the need for prevention strategies and health promotion in this population.