Associations of gamma-glutamyl transferase with cardio-metabolic diseases in people living with HIV infection in South Africa.

Abstract

BackgroundGamma-glutamyl transferase (GGT) has recently been reported as a biomarker for cardiovascular (CVD) risk in general populations. We investigated the associations of GGT with cardio-metabolic diseases and CVD risk in South Africans living with HIV.MethodsIn this cross-sectional study, HIV-infected adults were randomly recruited across 17 HIV clinics in the Western Cape Province. Homeostatic model assessment for insulin resistance (HOMA-IR), hypertension, diabetes, metabolic syndrome by Joint Interim Statement criteria (JIS-MS), a ≥5% and ≥10% predicted risk for a CVD event within 10 years by the Framingham risk score (10-years-CVD risk) were computed. Associations between GGT and cardio-metabolic trait were explored using linear and binomial logistic regressions adjusted for age, gender, lifestyle behaviours and HIV-related characteristics.ResultsAmong 709 participants (561 women, mean age 38.6 years), log-GGT was positively associated with waist circumference (β=2.75; pConclusionsIn this study, GGT levels were associated with cardio-metabolic variables independent of HIV specific attributes. If confirmed in longitudinal studies, GGT evaluation maybe included in CVD risk monitoring strategies in people living with HIV.