ASSOCIATION BETWEEN SERUM FERRITIN LEVELS AND METABOLIC SYNDROME IN YOUNG ADULTS: A CROSS-SECTIONAL STUDY

Abstract

Background: Metabolic syndrome (MetS) is a multifaceted condition characterized by central obesity, insulin resistance, dyslipidemia, and hypertension, which significantly elevates the risk of cardiovascular disease and type 2 diabetes mellitus. Recent studies suggest that elevated serum ferritin levels, an indicator of iron stores and inflammation, might be associated with MetS.
Objective: To investigate the association between serum ferritin levels and metabolic syndrome in young adults.
Methods: This cross-sectional study included young adults aged 18 to 35 years recruited from a university health center and surrounding community. Participants were evaluated for anthropometric measurements, blood pressure, and biochemical analyses, including serum ferritin levels. Metabolic syndrome was diagnosed based on criteria from the International Diabetes Federation. Statistical analyses were conducted to assess the relationship between serum ferritin levels and MetS components.
Results: A total of 200 participants were included, with a median serum ferritin level of 90 ?g/L. Central obesity was observed in 45% of participants, hypertension in 35%, elevated fasting glucose in 30%, and dyslipidemia in 40%. Serum ferritin levels were significantly associated with the presence of central obesity (p < 0.01), elevated fasting glucose (p < 0.05), and dyslipidemia (p < 0.05). Overall, 28% of participants met the criteria for metabolic syndrome.
Conclusion: Elevated serum ferritin levels are associated with components of metabolic syndrome in young adults. These findings suggest that ferritin may be a valuable biomarker for early detection and management of MetS, highlighting the need for further longitudinal studies to confirm these associations and explore their potential implications for preventive health strategies.
Keywords: Serum ferritin, metabolic syndrome, young adults, biomarkers, inflammation, insulin resistance