Analysis of factors associated with insulin resistance in young women: A cross-sectional study

Abstract

Summary: Background & aims: Impaired glucose tolerance in young women may lead to the future development of gestational diabetes mellitus and/or type 2 diabetes mellitus. Furthermore, presence of insulin resistance during pregnancy has a negative impact on the fetus. To prevent abnormal glucose metabolism during pregnancy, we aimed to clarify the factors associated with insulin resistance in pre-pregnant young women. Methods: In 401 young women (median age 19 years [19–20]), we assessed insulin resistance using the HOMA-IR and evaluated blood biochemical data, body composition, and nutrient intake to search the factors associated with insulin resistance. Results: Thirty-two (8%) of 401 subjects had insulin resistance. However, only 6 of 32 were overweight (body mass index ≥25 kg/m2), and no difference was found in physical activity level with or without insulin resistance. In a multivariate analysis, systolic blood pressure (OR 1.10, 95% Cl: 1.05–1.15), HDL-cholesterol (OR 0.96, 95% Cl: 0.92–0.99), visceral fat area (OR 1.02, 95% Cl: 1.01–1.04), and fat and oil intake (OR 1.06, 95%Cl: 1.02–1.09) were significantly associated with insulin resistance. Conclusions: Some young women who did not have obesity showed insulin resistance and their insulin resistance was significantly associated with factors related to metabolic syndrome. Measures to prevent metabolic syndrome may be effective in preventing gestational diabetes in young women with insulin resistance.

Keywords

• Young women
• Insulin resistance
• HOMA-IR
• Visceral fat