Exploring Socio-Behavioral Correlates of Metabolic and Inflammatory Risk in a University Sample Residing Along the U.S./Mexico Border: A Pilot Study Concomitantly Collecting Survey Data, Blood and Hair Samples, and Physical Measures

TL;DR

This pilot study explores how socio-behavioral factors relate to metabolic and inflammatory health in Hispanic adults living near the U.S./Mexico border.

Contribution

The study uniquely combines survey data, biological samples, and physical measures to examine socio-behavioral correlates of metabolic risk in a Hispanic population.

Findings

HbA1c was positively associated with age and negatively with health-related socio-behavioral factors.

Social support and parental education were significant factors in diabetes-related health outcomes.

The integration of socio-behavioral and biological data supports future targeted interventions.

Abstract

Hispanic adults have an increased incidence of type 2 diabetes (T2D) at a younger age and diagnosis of certain cancers, including liver, stomach, and colorectal, which may be attributed to metabolic health. Several key metabolic health indicators, such as hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c), body mass index (BMI), and waist-to-hip ratio (WHR), have been linked to obesity. The purpose of this pilot study was to explore the complex relationships between socio-behavioral factors that lead to the increased incidence of metabolic syndrome (e.g., HbA1c) and chronic inflammation (interleukins) in Hispanics. Two hundred and twelve Hispanic participants (Mage = 43.45, SD = 15.36) who identified predominantly as female (72.17%) were included in the study. Correlational analyses revealed that HbA1c was positively associated with age and negatively associated with several socio-behavioral factors, including overall health, quality of life, physical health, physical performance, social support, mother’s education, and father’s education. These findings highlight the importance of social support and parental involvement in diabetes management. The focused integration of socio-behavioral and biological data provides a powerful foundation for future research and the development of targeted interventions.