Evaluation of Several Anthropometric and Metabolic Indices as Correlates of Hyperglycemia in Overweight/Obese Adults

Abstract

Aim

Rapid and growing rise in obesity and diabetes mellitus, as serious human health-threatening issues, is alarming. The aim of the present study was assessing the accuracy of several obesity indices to predict hyperglycemia in overweight and obese Iranian populations and determining the value of such indices in comparison to the conventional parameters. We also evaluated new latent combined scores in this matter.

Patients and Methods

Overall, there were 2088 patients recruited from the weight loss clinic of Sina Hospital, an educational hospital of Tehran University of Medical Sciences for this cross-sectional study. Demographic information, anthropometric indices and biochemical measurements were collected and calculated. The multivariable regression modeling as well as area under the receiver-operating characteristic (ROC) analysis was used. To detect the existence of new combined scores, we used SEM (structural equation modeling) analysis through SmartPLS.

Results

Combined latent scores and WHtR (waist-to-height ratio) gave us a higher area under the curve in predicting hyperglycemia associated with WC (waist circumference) in women, whereas FFMI (fat-free mass index) gave low values. Additionally, BRI (body roundness index) and latent scores had slightly higher AUC values in predicting hyperglycemia in men. According to the age-adjusted odds ratio (OR) in the presence of hyperglycemia, OR was the highest for WHR (waist to hip ratio) in women (OR, 7.74; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.71–15.13). The association of WHR and hyperglycemia remained significant by adjusting for BMI (body mass index), WC and menopausal status.

Conclusion

WHR had the strongest association with hyperglycemia in women with only sufficient discrimination ability. However, neither BSI (body shape index) and BAI (body adiposity index) nor FMI (fat mass index) and FFMI were superior to BMI (body mass index), WC or WHtR in predicting hyperglycemia. It was revealed that BRI and combined scores had a more predictive power compared to the BSI, BAI, FMI and FFMI, simplifying hyperglycemia evaluation.

Keywords:

• diabetes mellitus
• obesity
• anthropometric indices

Acknowledgment

We would like to express our thanks to Research Development Centre of Sina Hospital for their cooperation as well as statistical and consulting supports.

Author Contributions

All authors contributed to data gathering, data analysis, drafting or revising the manuscript, gave final approval of the version to be published, and agree to be accountable for all aspects of the work.

Disclosure

The authors have no conflicts of interest to declare.

Additional information

Funding

The present study did not use any grant from funding agencies or non-profit sectors.