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Exploring the relationship between metabolic syndrome and vestibular dysfunction: NHANES data and Mendelian
Lingli Zhang1, Shihan Liu2, Yifan Li3
1Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Central Hospital Affiliated to Chongqing University of Technology, Chongqing, China.
Medicine
|August 27, 2025
Summary
Metabolic syndrome (MetS) does not strongly cause vestibular dysfunction. However, hypertension and low HDL cholesterol, components of MetS, may increase the risk of balance problems.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Endocrinology
- Public Health
Background:
- Metabolic syndrome (MetS) is linked to various health problems.
- Emerging research suggests a possible association between MetS and vestibular dysfunction.
- The precise nature of this relationship requires further investigation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the association between MetS and vestibular dysfunction.
- To explore potential causal links using Mendelian Randomization (MR).
- To identify specific MetS components that may influence vestibular health.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) data (1999-2004).
- Assessment of MetS status and vestibular function (Romberg test).
- Multivariate regression and MR analysis using genome-wide association studies data.
Main Results:
- Initial NHANES analysis showed a correlation between MetS and vestibular dysfunction, which diminished after adjustments.
- MR analysis did not support a causal relationship between MetS and vestibular dysfunction.
- Low high-density lipoprotein cholesterol and hypertension were identified as potential independent risk factors for vestibular dysfunction.
Conclusions:
- There is no robust evidence for a causal link between metabolic syndrome and vestibular dysfunction.
- Specific components of MetS, namely low HDL cholesterol and hypertension, may independently elevate the risk of vestibular dysfunction.
- These findings suggest targeted interventions for MetS components could help prevent vestibular issues.
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