Different experiences of the diagnosis and management of metabolic syndrome

Depending on statistics, the prevalence of metabolic syndrome(MetS) in Korea is 15-30%. MetS is a cluster of risk factors for diabetes and cardiovascular disease. With the increase of MetS in Korea and its risks for developing chronic diseases, this study explores how people with MetS in Korea receive the information on their condition and improve their healthy lifestyle practices. In-depth interviews were conducted with 21 adults with MetS in Korea over 40 years old. Health examination results, sociodemographic survey, and interview field notes were also collected. Thematic analysis was performed on the collected data revealed that participants were diagnosed with two different terms: 1)MetS or 2)a combination of individual MetS components such as prehypertension, prediabetes and abdominal obesity. Those who were diagnosed with individual MetS components were familiar with the diagnosed terms and coped with the condition based on their prior knowledge, experiences, and information from non-professional sources. They perceived visible impacts, such as changes in weight or body shape, as outcomes of lifestyle management. In contrast, those diagnosed with MetS, an unfamiliar term, took their condition more seriously. They participated in a MetS intervention program to improve the condition, and shared information from the intervention program with family and friends. They tried to adjust living arrangement to adopt a healthier lifestyle and perceived not only tangible impacts but also process of improving health behavior as the outcomes of lifestyle management. Health professionals should consider different aspects of these two diagnostic terms in developing prevention and control strategies.