ABSTRACT
The objective of this experiment was to assess blood pressure and glucose levels as risk factors for metabolic syndrome (MetS) among physiology students at the University of Benin (UNIBEN), Edo, Nigeria. The study involved 50 students, comprising 20 males and 30 females, aged 16 to 26 years. All participants voluntarily completed questionnaires and provided written informed consent before the examination. They were required to fast for at least 12 hours before the tests. Blood pressure was measured using an automated sphygmomanometer, and fasting blood glucose levels were assessed with a glucometer, following standard protocols. Data analysis was performed using GraphPad Prism statistical package version 8.1, with descriptive statistics presented as percentages. A significance level of P<0.05 was applied. The average age of the participants was 21.5 years.Results showed that 86% of the students had normal glucose levels, while 14% fell within the MetS range. For systolic blood pressure, 90% were within the normal range, and 10% were within the MetS range. Regarding diastolic blood pressure, 96% were in the normal range, with 4% in the MetS range. The correlation between blood pressure levels and a family history of diabetes suggested a 1.047 risk of MetS, but this was not statistically significant (P>0.05). Other family histories, such as hypertension and MetS, also showed no significant association (P>0.05), and there was no increased risk of developing metabolic syndrome.In conclusion, this study indicated that some physiology students at UNIBEN are at risk of developing MetS based on their blood pressure, glucose levels, and family history. Therefore, these students should take proactive steps to maintain good health.
