The Gangwon Obesity and Metabolic Syndrome Study: Methods and Initial Baseline Data

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Epidemiology
• Metabolic Disorders

Background:

• Rising obesity rates in rural South Korea necessitate research into contributing factors.
• The Gangwon Obesity and Metabolic Syndrome (GOMS) study is a community-based prospective cohort initiative.
• Investigates longitudinal changes in obesity and related factors in the Gangwon region.

Purpose of the Study:

• To examine genetic, behavioral, and environmental factors linked to obesity in rural South Korean populations.
• To understand the longitudinal changes in obesity status and associated conditions.
• To identify risk factors and the etiology of obesity and its comorbidities in rural areas.

Main Methods:

• Recruited 315 adults aged 40-69 from Hongcheon and Inje districts for the initial GOMS wave.
• Collected demographic, behavioral, psychological, dietary, environmental, and medical history data via questionnaires.
• Performed anthropometric measurements, blood tests, hand grip strength tests, and collected skin/stool samples.

Main Results:

• The mean age of participants was 58.5 years, with a mean BMI of 24.7±3.7 kg/m².
• High prevalence of comorbidities: 48.9% hypertension, 21.4% diabetes mellitus (DM), 55.6% dyslipidemia, 46.0% metabolic syndrome (MS).
• DM and MS prevalence rates were significantly higher in men.

Conclusions:

• The GOMS study's first baseline survey has been successfully initiated.
• Further analysis of collected data will provide deeper insights into obesity and related conditions.
• Ongoing follow-up and recruitment will enhance the investigation of obesity etiology and risk factors in rural Gangwon.