Prevalence of Hyperinsulinemia Associated With Body Mass Index, Genetic Predisposition, and Lifestyle in College Freshmen Students

Abstract

Objective: College lifestyle places an individual at greater risk for the development of insulin resistance (IR) and disease. The aim of this study was to establish a baseline measurement of insulin, and other variables influencing IR in college freshmen. Participants: Twenty-two men and women, 18 to 19 years of age, during first month of college. Methods: Following 12-hour fast, subjects reported to the laboratory for determination of body mass index (BMI) and completion of questionnaire determining ethnicity, family history, and patterns of diet, exercise, and stress. Blood samples were obtained and analyzed for glucose and insulin. Results: Mean insulin value for men (14.9 ± 1.86 μU/mL) was normal, and that for women (17.3 ± 1.74 μU/mL) was slightly elevated. When subjects were grouped by BMI, genetic predisposition, and summated lifestyle risk, fasting insulin values were significantly different. Eight of 22 subjects were hyperinsulinemic (insulin >19 μU/mL). Conclusion: Hyperinsulinemia is prevalent in this population and merits further investigation and intervention.

Keywords:

• clinical medicine
• community health
• health education
• nutrition

ACKNOWLEDGMENTS

The authors thank Andrew Jones, Courtney Perry, Lauren Raikes, and all students who participated in this study as subjects and lab assistants. Thanks also to Drs Carla Aldrich, Jeanne Barnett, and Kent Scheller for assistance with laboratory equipment, assay techniques, and review of manuscript. Special thanks to Fouad Hawa and staff at St Mary's Hospital for phlebotomy training. This study was supported by USI Student Endeavor and Pott College of Science and Engineering SERGA grants.