Relationships between sensory processing patterns and metabolic risk factors among community dwelling people with metabolic syndrome: A cross-sectional and correlational research design.

Abstract

BackgroundMetabolic Syndrome (MetS) increases the risk of other serious health problems, particularly cardiovascular diseases and stroke. Sensory processing patterns (SPPs) are internal factors shaping behaviors and emotions, both healthy and unhealthy. There is a lack of studies directly examining the relationship between the SPPs and metabolic risk factors.MethodThis study aimed to investigate SPPs and their association with metabolic risk factors in individuals with metabolic syndrome (MetS). One hundred and seventeen individuals with MetS completed questionnaires on demographic characteristics and the Thai Sensory Patterns Assessment-adult version. Data on metabolic risk factors, including fasting blood glucose, blood pressure, and waist circumference, were collected.ResultsThe findings revealed high arousal levels in proprioceptive and auditory senses among the participants. The fasting blood glucose was significantly correlated with a preference in the tactile sense (r = -0.150, PConclusionThe SPPs might be related to metabolic risk factors, so it is important to recognize how individual SPPs relate to metabolic risk factors. However, further studies using a larger sample may be needed to deeply explore the mechanisms underlying these associations.