The metabolic syndrome has received increased attention in the past few years. The metabolic syndrome is a cluster of cardiometabolic risk factors including central obesity, dyslipidemia, hypertension, and glucose intolerance. Due to higher prevalence of obesity, lack of physical activity, and high stress levels, law enforcement officers (LEOs) may be at high risk for the metabolic syndrome. However, the risk factors for the metabolic syndrome in this specific occupation have not been fully examined. The purpose of this dissertation was to assess the contributors to the metabolic syndrome among LEOs. This dissertation consists of a series of manuscripts which focus on the association between risk factors of the metabolic syndrome and the metabolic health risk among LEOs. Sworn LEOs of the Iowa Department of Public Safety were invited to participate in this study. The results of current studies suggest that LEOs who are overweight or obese, physically inactive, or gaining more weight are at a greater risk for the metabolic syndrome and its individual components than other LEOs. Weight control and regular physical activity should be encouraged for LEOs to maintain an optimal BMI and to reduce the metabolic syndrome-related morbidity and mortality. Finally, the prevalence of the metabolic syndrome in this LEO cohort does not appear to be increased above that of the general population.
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