Triglyceride/HDL Ratio Predicts Diabetes in Men

September is National Cholesterol Education Month, and in recognition of this today’s post will discuss research examining the relationship between certain lipid parameters and the development of diabetes.

Statistics from the CDC indicate more than 100 million American adults have total cholesterol levels above 200 mg/dl , with more than 35 million having total cholesterol levels above 240 mg/dl.

A research group from China examined the triglyceride to high density lipoprotein cholesterol (TG/HDL-C) ratio as a possible independent predictor for development of diabetes.

There were nearly 12,000 participants enrolled in the retrospective study, 53% men, 47% women, with a mean age of 44 years. The participants were followed on average for three years.

The research revealed that a high TG/HDL-C ratio has a positive correlation with risk of diabetes in men. Interestingly this ratio did not show correlation with the female subjects

This is a large study, with a huge number of subjects. It shows that the TG/HDL-C ratio may well be an independent predictor of diabetes, at least among men. Triglyceride and HDL levels are commonly measured during routine lab work, and are therefore easy to obtain. As this study was undertaken in a relatively homogeneous population in China, it would be helpful to undertake a similar study among a more diverse population, such as in the U.S. 

A high TG/HDL-C ratio provides us with another parameter to consider as we analyze routinely ordered lipid panels, and perhaps gives an early indication of those who may be at risk for diabetes.

“The devil has put a penalty on all things we enjoy in life. Either we suffer in health or we suffer in soul or we get fat.”– Albert Einstein

(Source- Journal of Diabetes Investigation, 2019)

This blog is a review of published medical and scientific literature, and should only be used for informational purposes. It does not constitute medical or health advice, nor does it create a physician-patient relationship with anyone. Discus any health concerns with your personal physician.