Indian Journal of Science and Technology

Abstract

Introduction: According to few studies carried out among peri-menopause women there is increase in weight and in hip circumference. These changes can increase the risk of Metabolic Syndrome. Upper body fat distribution can be easily be identified by Neck Circumference (NC). Objective: To find out whether NC can be used to predict Metabolic Syndrome in peri-menopause transition. Methods: A cross sectional, observational prospective study was conducted at Saveetha Medical College, Obstetrics and Gynaecology Outpatient Department. A total of 580 women were recruited randomly belonging to the age group between 35 years to 60 years and divided into pre, peri- and post-menopause women. NC was correlated with Metabolic Syndrome based on the National Cholesterol Education Program, Adult Treatment Panel III. Results: Out of the 580 women, 178 (31%) belonged to pre-menopause, 198 (34%) to peri-menopause and 204 (35%) to post-menopause women. When the mean NC was 34.04 ± 3.69 cm Metabolic Syndrome was absent. Metabolic Syndrome was present in 313 (54%) of women and the mean NC was 36.64 ± 2.56 cm. Out of these, 139 (24%) women belonged to peri-menopause age group. When NC was abnormal it correlated well with all parameters of Metabolic Syndrome namely BMI, Waist Circumference, WHR, Fasting Blood Glucose, Total Cholesterol, Triglycerides, HDL and LDL. Cut-off of for NC was 36.64 cm which had a Sensitivity of 86.9% and a specificity of 74.15% with a Positive Predictive Value of 79.7% and a Negative Predictive Value of 85.7% Conclusion: Neck Circumference is a simple and easy screening test and marker for metabolic syndrome in peri-menopause women.

Keywords: Menopause Transition, Metabolic Syndrome, Neck Circumference, Upper Body Fat, Screening Test