Investigating the triglyceride–glucose index in postmenopausal osteoporosis

Abstract

Objective This retrospective study aims to assess the association of the triglyceride–glucose index (TyG index) with postmenopausal osteoporosis and investigate longitudinal changes in TyG index levels in relation to osteoporosis risk. Methods Out of 704 women, after excluding those with osteopenia, a total of 517 patients who met the inclusion criteria were included. Participants were categorized based on T-scores derived from lumbar spine dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry scans. Demographic data, biochemical parameters and TyG index levels were analyzed. Logistic regression, correlation analysis and receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis were employed for statistical evaluation. Results The osteoporosis group (n = 254) exhibited significantly higher TyG index and triglyceride levels compared to controls (n = 263). Longitudinal analysis revealed significant increases in TyG index levels among women developing osteoporosis over time. ROC analysis demonstrated the TyG index’s accuracy for osteoporosis (first TyG area under the curve [AUC]: 0.767, second TyG AUC: 0.818, p < 0.001). Regression analyses identified the TyG index as a significant factor associated with osteoporosis (odds ratio: 39.468, 95% confidence interval: 12.884–120.903, p < 0.001). Conclusions The TyG index emerges as a valuable indicator for postmenopausal osteoporosis. These results emphasize the need for integrating metabolic health indicators into osteoporosis management strategies, warranting further research into targeted interventions.