Effects of Age and Economic Growth on Metabolic Syndrome in Taiwan
Author Information
Author(s): Tu Yu-Kang, Chien Kuo-Liong, Burley Victoria, Gilthorpe Mark S
Primary Institution: University of Leeds
Hypothesis
The study investigates whether the changing environment caused by rapid economic growth has differential effects on metabolic syndrome components across generations in Taiwan.
Conclusion
The study found cohort effects in some components of metabolic syndrome, indicating that the changing environment is associated with health outcomes in later life.
Supporting Evidence
- Men born after 1970 had lower fasting plasma glucose and body mass index.
- Women born after 1970 had lower body mass index and higher high-density lipoprotein levels.
- Overall, metabolic syndrome components showed trends related to economic growth.
Takeaway
As Taiwan's economy grew, people's health changed in different ways depending on when they were born, showing that the environment can affect health.
Methodology
Partial least squares regression was used to analyze health screening data from 1996 and 2006, adjusting for confounders like education and lifestyle.
Potential Biases
Potential bias due to exclusion of individuals with prior medical histories.
Limitations
Participants with chronic diseases or on long-term medication were excluded, which may introduce selection bias.
Participant Demographics
The study included adults aged 20 to 59 from Taiwan, with data collected in 1996 and 2006.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
Want to read the original?
Access the complete publication on the publisher's website