Physical activity modifies the association between atherogenic index of plasma and prediabetes and diabetes: A cross-sectional analysis.

BACKGROUND

Although research has explored the association between atherogenic index of plasma (AIP) and prediabetes and diabetes, there is still not sufficient available evidence the role of physical activity (PA) in this relationship. Our purpose is to examine the complex connections between AIP, PA, and prediabetes and diabetes in a young and middle-aged population.

METHODS

This study included 2220 individuals from the general population, aged 20-60 years. AIP was calculated from the logarithm of the triglyceride (TG) to high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) ratio. PA was assessed depending to the American Heart Association (AHA) criteria and categorized into medium-high and low PA levels. We used binary logistic regression to explore associations and subsequently performed sensitivity and subgroup analyses.

RESULTS

The 2220 participants had a mean age of 38 years, with a mean AIP of -0.1185, and a prediabetes and diabetes prevalence of 7.2%. After adjusting for auxiliary variables, AIP was positively correlated with prediabetes and diabetes (odds ratio [OR]: 3.447, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.829-6.497). In the low PA population, the prevalence of prediabetes and diabetes raised significantly with higher AIP (OR: 3.678, 95% CI: 1.819-7.434). This association was not meaningful in the medium to high PA population (OR: 1.925, 95% CI: 0.411-9.007). Joint and sensitivity analyze results also showed agreement. Restricted cubic spline identified a linear relationship between AIP and the prevalence of prediabetes and diabetes. Notably, the prevalence significantly increases when AIP values exceed -0.16 (p for linearity <0.05). The findings revealed heterogeneity across subgroups stratified by sex and age.

CONCLUSIONS

PA may modify the link as regards AIP with prediabetes and diabetes in young and middle-aged populations. Adherence to PA prevents the adverse effects of abnormal glucose metabolism caused by dyslipidemia, particularly in women.