Inflammation markers and metabolic characteristics of subjects with 1-h plasma glucose levels.

OBJECTIVE

To assess the association of 1-h plasma glucose (1hPG) and inflammation with normal glucose tolerance (NGT) and pre-diabetes.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

A cohort of 1,062 subjects was enrolled. After oral glucose load (oral glucose tolerance test), we compared subjects with NGT and pre-diabetes above and below the 1hPG cut point (155 mg/dl). Fibrinogen and leukocytes count (white blood cells [WBCs]) for subclinical inflammation, lipid ratios, insulin sensitivity (Matsuda index) were determined.

RESULTS

Patients with NGT and pre-diabetes (1hPG >155 mg/dl) showed a significant increase of inflammatory markers and lipid ratios (for all, P < 0.05). In age-, sex-, and BMI-adjusted analysis, 1hPG was associated with a significantly higher WBC count and fibrinogen (P < 0.05). Patients with elevated 1hPG showed a highly significant lower insulin sensitivity than subjects <1hPG (P < 0.01).

CONCLUSIONS

Elevated 1hPG in subjects with NGT and pre-diabetes is associated with subclinical inflammation, high lipid ratios, and insulin resistance. Therefore, 1hPG >155 mg/dl could be considered a new "marker" for cardiovascular risk.