Sedentary Lifestyle, Stress, And Metabolic Syndrome: A Triad of Health Risks for Female Teachers in Urban Bangladesh
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Abstract
Background: Female teachers in urban settings are exposed to sedentary lifestyles, occupational stress, and poor lifestyle behaviors, which may increase their risk for cardiometabolic and psychological health problems. Objective: This study aimed to assess the sociodemographic, lifestyle, clinical, and stress-related characteristics of female teachers in Khulna, Bangladesh. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted among 115 female teachers from five schools and colleges in Khulna between January and July 2025. Data were collected via face-to-face interviews using structured questionnaires assessing socio demographics, lifestyle behaviors, and perceived stress (PSS-10). Clinical measurements included body mass index, waist circumference, blood pressure, fasting glucose, and lipid profile. Descriptive statistics and chi-square tests were used to analyze associations between lifestyle factors and stress levels. Results: The majority of participants were aged 30–39 years (38.3%), married (82.6%), and held postgraduate degrees (65.2%). High sedentary behavior (≥8 hours/day) was reported by 45.2%, inadequate physical activity by 74.8%, and irregular diet by 68.7%. Clinically, 66.1% were overweight or obese, 47% had central obesity, 33.9% had elevated blood pressure, and 28.7% had impaired fasting glucose. Perceived stress was moderate-to-high in 76.5% of participants, with unhealthy coping mechanisms reported by 67%. Chi-square analysis revealed that inadequate physical activity, high sedentary time, and excessive screen use were significantly associated with higher stress levels (p < 0.05). Conclusion: Female teachers in urban Khulna are exposed to multiple lifestyle and psychological risk factors, including sedentary behavior, inadequate physical activity, poor dietary habits, and high stress, alongside cardiometabolic risks.
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