Analysis of the association between metabolic syndrome and disease in a workplace population over time.

Objectives: While research has confirmed an association between metabolic syndrome (MetS) and diseases such as heart disease and diabetes, none of these studies have been conducted in a worksite population. Because corporations are often the primary payer of health-care costs in the United States, they have a vested interest in identifying the magnitude of MetS risk factors in employed populations, and also in knowing if those risk factors are associated with other health risks or medical conditions.

Methods: This study identified the prevalence of MetS risk factors and self-reported disease in employees (N=3285) of a manufacturing corporation who participated in a health risk appraisal and biometric screening in both 2004 and 2006. Health-care costs, pharmacy costs, and short-term disability costs were compared for those with and without MetS and disease.

Results: The prevalence of MetS increased from 2004 to 2006 in this employed population. Those with MetS were significantly more likely to self-report arthritis, chronic pain, diabetes, heartburn, heart disease, and stroke. Employees with MetS in 2004 were also significantly more likely to report new cases of arthritis, chronic pain, diabetes, and heart disease in 2006. The costs of those with MetS and disease were 3.66 times greater than those without MetS and without disease.

Conclusions: MetS is associated with disease and increased costs in this working population. There is an opportunity for health promotion to prevent MetS risk factors from progressing to disease status which may improve vitality for employees, as well as limit the economic impact to the corporation.