Acanthosis Nigricans and insulin levels in a south Indian population—(ADEPS paper 2)

Abstract

Aim of the study was to determine the prevalence of Acanthosis Nigricans (AN) in a central Kerala south Indian population and to evaluate its correlations with diabetes, obesity, insulin levels and other factors. A cross-sectional community survey including physical examination and biochemical evaluation was conducted among adults above the age of 18 years in central Kerala In the first phase of the study 3069 participants were surveyed using questionnaires regarding socioeconomic status and medical details. Among them 986 subjects were evaluated in the second phase of the study which included anthropometric measurements, examination for blood pressure and Acanthosis Nigricans, blood tests such as blood glucose, fasting lipids. Fasting serum insulin level was measured for all non-diabetic subjects. Statistical analysis was done using SPSS 11.0 version software. RESULTS of the study showed that 16.1% of population had AN and it was significantly higher among females (19.6%) than males (11.4%). Prevalence of AN was highest in 30-40 year age group and it decreased with the age. Prevalence of AN correlated positively with female gender, obesity, high triglyceride levels and presence of diabetes. Presence of AN was significantly associated with higher fasting insulin levels. Males with AN had significantly higher insulin values than females with AN. AN has stronger clinical relevance among males than females and it can be used as a marker of insulin resistance in south Indian population especially if obesity and family history of diabetes are also present.