Metabolic Syndrome of Thai Buddhist Monks in Bangkok Metropolitan Temples
Kwancharoen R, MD1, Leewattanapat P, MD1, Suraamornkul S, MD1
Affiliation : 1 Division of Endocrinology, Department of Internal Medicine, Faculty of Medicine Vajira Hospital, Navamindradhiraj University, Bangkok, Thailand
Objective : To evaluate the prevalence of metabolic syndrome in Thai monks in Bangkok.
Materials and Methods : This cross-sectional study included the monks who lived in Bangkok temples and consented to participate
in the study. The participants filled up the questionnaire queried about personal and health data and underwent physical examination
including anthropometric measurement before biochemical blood test. The diagnosis of metabolic syndrome was defined by the
International Diabetes Foundation (IDF) 2005 and Harmonization 2009 criteria.
Results : Among 190 Thai monks included in the present study, the median age was 44 years old [range, 27 to 58 years]. The median
body mass index was 24.95 kg/m2 [range, 22.3 to 27.8 kg/m2]. The prevalence of metabolic syndrome by IDF 2005 and Harmonization
2009 criteria were 16.8% and 28.4%, respectively.
Conclusion : The prevalence of metabolic syndrome in Thai monks was moderate. To reduce the consequences of these metabolic
abnormalities, an improvement of health system to develop strategies for prevention, detection, and treatment of metabolic syndrome
is important.
Keywords : Thai monk, Metabolic syndrome
