Predicting metabolic syndrome: Machine learning techniques for improved preventive medicine

Objectives: Metabolic syndrome (MetS) has a significant impact on health. MetS is the umbrella term for a group of interdependent metabolic threats that contribute to the emergence of diseases that can lead to death. This study was designed to better predict the risks associated with MetS to enable medical personnel to make more optimal preventive medical decisions. Study design: Data from a large hospital survey database was used to train data mining classification techniques to predict patient-level risk subsequent to extensive data engineering that included aggregating predictors from multiple visits. Methods: A prospective group of seemingly healthy volunteers from the database was studied based on data obtained during their regular annual health checkups. Results: After aggregating the variables over time, the findings indicated that the predictive power of our model outperformed methods presented in other studies (AUC = 0.947). Specific lifestyle factors were identified as contributing to MetS. Conclusion: Involvement to avoid recurring diseases can significantly decrease medical problems and treatment expenses. The findings emphasize the importance of using predictive tools in healthcare and preventive medicine. The results can be used for future prevention strategies that encourage lifestyle changes and implement directed medical treatment protocols to decrease the burden of illness.