The Association between Use of Tobacco, Alcohol, or Cannabis and Metabolic Syndrome

Objectives: In this study, we describe the relationship between metabolic syndrome (MetS) components and tobacco use and other behavioral and socio-economic characteristics. Methods: We collected demographic, anthropometric, and bioclinical data on 961 individuals at risk of MetS. We categorized frequency of use of tobacco product and other substances (alcohol and cannabis) as never, occasional, and regular. We used regression models to assess the relationship of tobacco and other substance use with MetS components and socio-economic characteristics. Results: Tobacco use differed significantly by age, gender, race, education, and employment status. Regular use of tobacco was significantly associated with higher blood pressure (131/85 in regular users compared to 127/82 in never users; p < .05). Regular alcohol use was associated with higher levels of glucose (p = .002) and a lower likelihood of meeting MetS criteria based on low HDL levels (p = .017). Regular cannabis use was associated with higher waist circumference (p = .006) and a lower HDL level (p = .027). Conclusion: Use of tobacco or other substances impacts MetS risk factors. This impact should be considered when assessing the risk of MetS and cardiovascular disease and making recommendations for lifestyle and behavioral changes.