Lipid Accumulation Product as a Predictor of Prediabetes and Diabetes: Insights From NHANES Data (1999–2018)

Abstract

Background: The study investigates the association between lipid accumulation product (LAP) and the risk of prediabetes and diabetes. LAP, a measure indicating lipid overaccumulation, is hypothesized to be a significant predictor for these conditions. This research utilizes data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) conducted between 1999 and 2018.Methods: The study followed a structured methodology, starting with data extraction from the NHANES database. Participants’ eligibility was determined based on specific inclusion and exclusion criteria, resulting in a final sample size of 24,121 individuals. LAP was calculated using established formulas for men and women. The diagnosis of prediabetes and diabetes was based on standard medical criteria, including HbA1c levels, fasting plasma glucose, and oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT) results. Covariates like demographic variables, lifestyle factors, and other health indicators were also considered. Statistical analysis involved categorizing LAP into quartiles and employing logistic regression models to examine the relationship between LAP and the risk of prediabetes and diabetes.Results: Participants in the highest LAP quartile exhibited distinct characteristics: older age, lower education levels, more former smokers and drinkers, higher blood pressure and cholesterol levels, and greater use of medications. A positive association was observed between LAP and the incidence of prediabetes and diabetes across all models. Specifically, each 10‐unit increase in LAP was linked to a 22% increase in risk. Nonlinear relationships were also explored, revealing an inflection point in the risk correlation at an LAP value of 68.1.Conclusion: The study concludes that LAP is a significant predictor of prediabetes and diabetes risk, with higher LAP levels correlating with increased risk. This finding underscores the potential of LAP as a useful marker in identifying individuals at higher risk for these conditions. It also highlights the importance of considering LAP in preventive health strategies.