Metabolic syndrome: effect of a culturally appropriate diet and physical activity in female Pakistani immigrants

Abstract

Metabolic Syndrome is a global health issue characterised by the clustering of cardiovascular risk factors including central/abdominal obesity, elevated blood pressure, elevated plasma glucose levels and dyslipidaemia. Diet and lifestyle modification is the key defence against Metabolic Syndrome. This study aimed to answer the following research questions: What are the metabolic characteristics of Pakistani women residing in Melbourne displaying the risk factors of Metabolic Syndrome? Do genetic markers that have been associated with Metabolic Syndrome exist in Pakistani females? Is a culturally appropriate diet and lifestyle intervention an effective mechanism for preventing the onset, or reducing the severity of Metabolic Syndrome in migrant Pakistani women