Visual Abstract

Nearly 50% of US adults >60 years have metabolic syndrome (MetS), which is linked to heart disease and diabetes. We evaluated if changes in cardiometabolic measures during a behavioral weight loss intervention for older adults differed by baseline MetS status (+ vs. -). The Pitt Retiree Study (PRS) was a 1-year lifestyle intervention trial adapted from DPP for adults 65+ years at high cardiometabolic risk. Participants attended 12 in-person group sessions, then were randomized to a monthly follow-up mode (phone or newsletter). Goals included 7% weight loss by 4 months via reduced calorie/fat intake, increased lean protein, and aerobic/strength training. Analyses include women only as 77% of PRS was female and sex differences in lipid metabolism exist. Participants (n=238) were mean (SD) age 71.1 (4.2), BMI 33.8 (5.4), and 67% had MetS at baseline. Regression models were used to compare change in cardiometabolic measures at 12 months in -MetS vs. +MetS (Table). Mean triglycerides (TG) decreased more in +MetS than -MetS while changes in other cardiometabolic measures did not differ between groups. -MetS had normal mean TG at baseline with little scope to improve, while +MetS had controlled blood pressure (BP) and LDL due to greater use of BP and lipid-lowering drugs. Nevertheless, both groups showed favorable cardiometabolic changes following lifestyle intervention.

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Disclosure

H. J. Stern: None. R. G. Miller: None. T. J. Orchard: None. T. Costacou: None. E. M. Venditti: None.

Funding

National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (R18DK096405)

© 2021 by the American Diabetes Association
2021
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