Health Behavior Adherence in a Metropolitan-Based Metabolic Syndrome Management Program during the COVID-19 Pandemic
- Author:
Sungwon PARK
1
;
Lauretta QUINN
;
Chang Gi PARK
;
Eileen COLLINS
;
Oi Saeng HONG
;
Carol Estwing FERRANS
Author Information
- Publication Type:Original Article
- From: Journal of Obesity & Metabolic Syndrome 2024;33(2):166-176
- CountryRepublic of Korea
- Language:English
-
Abstract:
Background:The COVID-19 pandemic increased the worldwide prevalence of metabolic syndrome. The purpose of this study was to assess health behavior adherence during the pandemic in adults who had engaged in a metabolic syndrome management program for at least 6 months. This assessment included an evaluation of health behavior changes, factors influencing adherence, and clinical parameters. The city-wide program was operated by the Seoul Metropolitan Government.
Methods:Baseline and follow-up data were compared in 116 participants who engaged in the program for at least 6 months prior to the pandemic. Health behaviors and clinical parameters were examined. Generalized estimating equation analysis was used to identify sociodemographic variables influencing health behavior adherence over time.
Results:Systolic blood pressure, waist circumference, and blood glucose improved (all P<0.05), and risk factors decreased (P<0.001) from baseline to follow-up (mean±standard deviation, 1.13±0.91 years). All six health behaviors, physical activity and weight control, eating habits, alcohol consumption and smoking, stress management, sleep and rest, and medication compliance and medical examination improved (all P<0.001) from baseline to follow-up (2.37±1.05 years). Smoking and employment negatively influenced adherence to health behaviors (P<0.05). Participants felt the most beneficial part of the program was receiving sequential medical examination results with follow-up consultations by public health professionals without charge.
Conclusion:Our study demonstrated the durability of the impact of the Seoul Program on all six targeted health behaviors as well as clinical parameters. Findings encourage participation in such broad-based programs and development of novel approaches to facilitate success for smokers and employed participants.
