(P03-039-24) Food Security and Cardio-Metabolic Risk in Individuals With Metabolic Syndrome

Objectives: Individuals with metabolic syndrome (MetS) might experience food insecurity due to financial challenges and the increased risks of diabetes and cardiovascular diseases, which in turn may exacerbate MetS symptoms. This study aimed to evaluate food insecurity prevalence in persons with MetS and explore its association with cardio-metabolic risk factors.

Methods: Data from 664 individuals with MetS were derived from the baseline data of a multi-site, randomized controlled trial of lifestyle interventions for individuals with MetS in the United States. Baseline data were collected from October 2019 to February 2022 using validated questionnaires and standardized anthropometric and clinical procedures. Household food security was collected using the USDA 10-item survey. Cardio-metabolic measures included body mass index, waist circumference, blood pressure, glucose, and lipids. Regression models, unadjusted and adjusted for age, race, relationship status, employment, and household income, were performed to examine the association between food security and cardio-metabolic factors.

Results: Of the 664 participants (median age 56; IQR 15), the majority were female, non-Hispanic White, college educated, and employed. Food insecurity was reported by 23% (N=152), with 5% (N=31) experiencing very low food security. The only cardio-metabolic measure significantly associated with food security was the HbA1c level. In the very low food security group, the mean HbA1c level was 5.8±0.3, which was significantly higher compared to the levels among food secure (5.6±0.4) and low food secure individuals (5.7±0.4) in both unadjusted and adjusted models (Ps = 0.015 and 0.037, respectively). Serum glucose exhibited a significant association with food security in the unadjusted model (mean glucose level was 100.8±12.7 in food security vs 98.3±12.9 in food insecurity; P = 0.013); however this significance was not maintained in the adjusted model.

Conclusions: Findings revealed a high rate of food insecurity and its graded relationship with HbA1c levels among individuals with MetS. The economic and health burden associated with MetS underscores the urgency for interventions and policies aimed at addressing food insecurity in this vulnerable group.

Funding Sources: William G. McGowan Charitable Fund