Waist-to-hip Ratio Research Articles

Exploring the Link between ABO Blood Groups and Obesity among Young Adults

Objective: To explore the link between the ABO blood groups and obesity among young adults of Hyderabad district, Sind, Pakistan. Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted from February 2021 to January 2022, and included 582 randomly selected participants, including 301 males and 281 females, aged between 18 to 40 years, from various institutions of district Hyderabad, including students, faculty members, and employee of universities, colleges, hospitals. A simple random sampling technique was used for the collection of data. Before induction, verbal consent was taken from all the participants. Data was collected by a self-structured questionnaire including sociodemographic characteristics. A brief history was taken relevant to the parameters of the study followed by measuring Body Mass Index, waist circumference, and waist-hip ratio. BMI was categorized with South Asian standards. Data collected through structured questionnaires and anthropometric parameters were analyzed by SPSS version 20.0. Results: In this study, the data of 582 participants were included out of 600 participants, as the remaining 18 could not provide complete data. The mean age in male participants was 27.83 ± 5.478 and in females was 22.27 ± 4.730. The average BMI in male participants was 25.81 ± 5.08 and in females was 24.00 ±4.90. Overall, 205 B blood group participants were found obese, which included 111 male participants and 94 female participants, followed by blood 197 group O participants, 130 A blood group participants, and 50 AB group individuals. In total, there were 536 Rh positives, and only 42 Rh negatives. Individuals with blood group B and Rh-positive status were identified at being greater risk of developing higher BMI, waist-hip ratio, and waist circumference. Conclusion: The evidence found in this study proved a positive association of the types of blood groups with BMI, waist-hip ratio, and waist circumference.

Effects of resistance and strength training on serum phosphorus levels in male footballers: implications for physical educators and sports trainers

Background and Study Aim. Sports performance and overall health of athletes are highly dependent on various physiological markers. Among these, blood biochemistry is of great importance and should be carefully considered in athletes' training regimens. However, the effect of strength and resistance training on serum phosphorus levels still requires further clarification and more effective solutions. The aim of this study was to determine the effect of strength and resistance training on serum phosphorus levels in elite male soccer players. Material and Methods. A sample of 90 volunteers was recruited from football athletes in the Peshawar division. Thirty participants were selected from each of the under-16, under-19, and under-23 age groups. They were divided into three groups: the Resistance Training Group (RTG), the Strength Training Group (STG), and the Control Group (CG). Each group consisted of 30 participants, with 10 from each age category. Phosphorus levels and anthropometric measurements (height, weight, BMI, waist circumference, hip circumference, and waist-to-hip ratio (WHR)) were assessed before and after a 12-week strength and resistance training intervention. Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) and paired sample t-tests were used to evaluate changes over time. Results. Significant improvements were observed in serum phosphorus levels in the Resistance Training Group (4.77±0.258 vs. 3.66±0.207, P<0.001) and in the Strength Training Group (4.31±0.304 vs. 3.66±0.209, P<0.001). A 12-week regimen of strength and resistance training significantly improved serum phosphorus levels among the participants. Analysis of variance indicated that both strength and resistance training significantly affected serum phosphorus levels after 12 weeks of intervention. Tukey’s HSD test revealed that the effects of resistance training were more pronounced than those of strength training. Conclusions. This study highlights the importance of incorporating both strength and resistance training in athletic programs. These training approaches are crucial for optimizing physical health and performance. The findings underscore the need for educators and trainers to adapt and refine their methods to maximize the benefits of these interventions. By doing so, they can enhance the effectiveness of training regimens and contribute to the overall well-being of athletes.

The association between low carbohydrate dietary score (LCDS) and cardiovascular risk factors: results from the Shiraz Heart Study (SHS)

BackgroundCardiovascular disease (CVD) is a major cause of death and recent studies have highlighted the potential role of dietary carbohydrate indices in cardiovascular health. Given the controversial results in this field, the aim of this study was to investigate the association between low carbohydrate dietary score (LCDS) and CVD risk factors in a population of Iranian adults.MethodsThis cross-sectional study was conducted within the framework of the Shiraz Heart Study (SHS) including 1982 adults. The validated 168 items food frequency questionnaire (FFQ) was used to assess participants’ dietary intakes. To investigate the association between LCDS and cardiometabolic risk factors, logistic regression, was conducted.ResultsDuring 5 years of follow-up, a total of 1982 adults, with a mean age of 53.07 ± 8.38 years, were included to the analysis. The adjusted model based on known confounding factors (age, sex, smoking, physical activity, energy intake and body mass index) revealed a significant decrease in a body shape index (ABSI) (OR = 0.70, 95% CI= (0.50 to 0.98), P = 0.038) comparing highest LCDS tertile vs. the reference. In contrast, risk of hypertension (HTN), body mass index (BMI), waist-hip ratio (WHR), triglyceride (TG), total cholesterol (TC), low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-c), high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-c), atherogenic index of plasma (AIP), and fasting blood sugar (FBS) were not significantly associated with LCDS.ConclusionCurrent findings suggest that adherence to a low carbohydrate diet reduces ABSI, a main indicator of central obesity.

Obesity paradox, weight-free anthropometric measures, and major adverse cardiovascular events in the elderly: Insight from the Northern Shanghai Study

Abstract Aims Many studies have investigated the obesity paradox in the elderly. However, besides body mass index (BMI), many other anthropometric measures, such as the waist-to-hip ratio (WHR), provide a better indication of body fat distribution and may be more useful in a geriatric population. Methods 3285 participants aged over 65 years old from the Northern Shanghai Study were included in this analysis. Eight anthropometric measures, including weight-related measures (BMI, weight-adjusted-waist index, body shape index and body surface area) and weight-free measures (WHR, waist-to-height ratio, body roundness index, relative fat mass) were measured and calculated with standard methods. Major adverse cardiovascular events (MACEs) included the non-fatal myocardial infarction, non-fatal stroke or cardiovascular death. Results Participants had an average age of 71.4 years and 1428 (43.47%) were men. The median follow-up was 5.4 years (IQR, 4.4-7.3 years) and 218 events occurred. Participants with obesity (BMI ≥ 28 kg/m2) were associated with a higher risk of MACEs compared with the normal (adjusted Hazard ratio = 1.54, 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.07-2.22, P=0.020). Restricted cubic splines also highlighted the robust correlation between high BMI and high MACEs risk (Pfor overall=0.025, Pfor nonlinear=0.339). Similarly, the aHR for the incidence of MACEs in WHR quartile 4 versus quartile 1 was 1.96 (95% CI: 1.26-3.05, P=0.003). When WHR was examined as a continuous variable, the result remained unaltered (Pfor overall=0.020, Pfor nonlinear=0.353). In adjusted model, all four weight-free measures were significantly associated with increased risk of MACEs (all P<0.05), while only two weight-related measures were related to the risk of MACEs. Conclusion In the elderly, BMI and alternative anthropometric measures showed no evidence of an "obesity paradox". Weight-free measures were more relevant to a risk of MACEs.Take home message

Association between renal function impairment and body roundness index (BRI) in elderly hypertensive patients

Abstract Objective The purpose of this study was to explore the associations of renal function impairment and body roundness index (BRI) in elderly hypertensive patients. Methods This is a community-based observational and cross-sectional study.A total of 1482 elderly hypertensive patients from our center in 2021 were enrolled. Waist-to-hip ratio(WHR) , Body mass index(BMI) and BRI were calculated with validated formulas. According to tri quantile method of BRI level , the patients were divided into low , medium and high BRI groups. The incidence of renal function impairment in the three groups was compared to explore the associations of renal function impairment and BRI in elderly hypertensive patients. Result According to the estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) level, the patients were divided into two groups: impaired renal function group and non impaired renal function group. 133 cases were included in the group with impaired renal function, and 1349 cases were included in the group without impaired renal function. The proportion of patients with impaired renal function was 8%, 497 were in the low BRI group, 491 in the medium BRI group, and 494 in the high BRI group. Comparing the incidence of renal function impairment in patients with different BRI levels, the results showed that the incidence of renal function impairment in patients with high BRI was higher than that in patients with low BRI (7.0%vs.11.5%,p=0.015). The results of binary logistic regression analysis showed that the risk of renal function impairment increased by 19% for each unit of BRI increase (95%CI 1.037-1.122,P=0.024). After adjusting for age, gender, blood lipid, smoking and drinking history, years of hypertension, diabetes, years of diabetes,and random blood glucose levels, the risk of renal function impairment in high BRI group was still significantly higher than low BRI group (OR=1.697,95%CI 1.031-2.794,P=0.038),shows that BRI is an independent risk factor for renal function impairment in elderly hypertension patients. The receiver operating characteristic curve (ROC) results show that the prediction ability of BRI in the whole population is better than that of BMI and waist circumference (WC), and the prediction ability of BRI in elderly female population is the best (AUC=0.569). Conclusion Increasing of BRI is correlated with the occurrence of renal function impairment in elderly hypertension patients, and has the best predictive value for renal function impairment in elderly women with hypertension.

Weight Changes Are Linked to Adipose Tissue Genes in Overweight Women with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome.

Women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) have varying difficulties in achieving weight loss by lifestyle intervention, which may depend on adipose tissue metabolism. The objective was to study baseline subcutaneous adipose tissue gene expression as a prediction of weight loss by lifestyle intervention in obese/overweight women with PCOS. This is a secondary analysis of a randomized controlled trial where women with PCOS, aged 18-40 and body mass index (BMI) ≥ 27 were initially randomized to either a 4-month behavioral modification program or minimal intervention according to standard care. Baseline subcutaneous adipose tissue gene expression was related to weight change after the lifestyle intervention. A total of 55 obese/overweight women provided subcutaneous adipose samples at study entry. Weight loss was significant after behavioral modification (-2.2%, p = 0.0014), while there was no significant weight loss in the control group (-1.1%, p = 0.12). In microarray analysis of adipose samples, expression of 40 genes differed significantly between subgroups of those with the greatest weight loss or weight gain. 10 genes were involved in metabolic pathways including glutathione metabolism, gluconeogenesis, and pyruvate metabolism. Results were confirmed by real-time polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) in all 55 subjects. Expressions of GSTM5, ANLN, and H3C2 correlated with weight change (R = -0.41, p = 0.002; R = -0.31, p = 0.023 and R = -0.32, p = 0.016, respectively). GSTM5, involved in glutathione metabolism, was the strongest predictor of weight loss, and together with baseline waist-hip ratio (WHR) explained 31% of the variation in body weight change. This study shows that baseline subcutaneous adipose tissue genes play a role for body weight outcome in response to lifestyle intervention in overweight/obese women with PCOS.

All-cause, cancer and cardiovascular mortality among South Asians living in the UK: Follow-up of the London Life Sciences Population (LOLIPOP) cohort

Abstract Background Although South Asians are the largest ethnic minority group in the UK, and the largest ethnic group worldwide, few studies have investigated patterns of mortality in South Asians. Methods We investigated 16,391 South Asian and 6,970 European men and women living in the UK, and participating in the London Life Sciences Prospective Population study. Participants were recruited in 2002-2008, and survival determined to 2019. We examined relationships of clinical, anthropometric, and lifestyle risk factors to mortality outcomes. Findings: Compared to Europeans, South Asians had higher prevalence of diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and hypertension, higher waist-hip ratio, fasting glucose, insulin and triglycerides, but lower smoking rates and HDL cholesterol (all P<0.001). Age and sex adjusted all-cause mortality was lower (Hazard Ratio (HR): 0.75 [0.68-0.81], P<0.001), all-cancer mortality was lower (HR 0.50 [0.43-0.58], P<0.001), and coronary heart disease (CHD) mortality was higher (HR 1.29 [1.05-1.60], P<0.01) in South Asians compared to Europeans. Mortality rates were ~50% lower for 9 of the 10 most common cancers in South Asians. After adjusting for risk factors, ethnic differences were attenuated only for CHD mortality. Interpretation: All-cause and cancer mortality are lower, but CHD mortality is higher, in South Asians compared to Europeans. Measured risk factors do not explain lower all-cause and all-cancer mortality, but do account for higher CHD mortality. Our findings provide evidence for population-specific exposures protective against cancers in South Asians, as well as the motivation to further improve cardiovascular risk reduction in this major ethnic group.

Selected somatic parameters and body composition as predictors of cardiorespiratory fitness among Polish adolescents aged 11–14

The aim of the study was to verify whether selected somatic parameters and components of body composition were significant predictors of cardiorespiratory fitness (CRF) among a potentially healthy Polish population of adolescents aged 11–14 years. The cross-sectional study was conducted on a group of 375 subjects (164 girls, and 211 boys). A 20 m shuttle run test (20 m SRT) was used to assess CRF. The total number of rounds was taken into account. Basic somatic parameters were measured: body mass (BM), body height (BH), waist circumference (WC), hip circumference (HC), body mass index (BMI), waist-to-hip ratio (WHR) and waist-to-height ratio (WHtR), and body composition components: body fat percentage (FM%), fat mass (FM kg), total body water (TBW), fat-free mass (FFM). Statistical analyses included basic statistical measures (mean and standard deviation) and Spearman rank correlation coefficient. Multiple linear regression analysis was performed to detect significant predictors of CRF. In each proposed model, the dependent variable was the number of rounds, and the independent variables were selected somatic parameters and components of body composition. More than half (65%) of the subjects had an average or lower level of CRF, and 35% of the population presented a good or above good level of CRF. The study showed a statistically significant negative correlation between BM, FM%, FM kg, HC, WC, BMI, WHR, WHtR and the number of laps in the total sample. The strongest correlation in the group of girls was noted for age (r = 0.34) and in the group of boys for FM% (r = -0.52\\documentclass[12pt]{minimal} \\usepackage{amsmath} \\usepackage{wasysym} \\usepackage{amsfonts} \\usepackage{amssymb} \\usepackage{amsbsy} \\usepackage{mathrsfs} \\usepackage{upgreek} \\setlength{\\oddsidemargin}{-69pt} \\begin{document}$$-0.52$$\\end{document}). Each regression model presented proved to be statistically significant, and the significant predictors of CRF in the group of girls were age (R2\\documentclass[12pt]{minimal} \\usepackage{amsmath} \\usepackage{wasysym} \\usepackage{amsfonts} \\usepackage{amssymb} \\usepackage{amsbsy} \\usepackage{mathrsfs} \\usepackage{upgreek} \\setlength{\\oddsidemargin}{-69pt} \\begin{document}$$R^2$$\\end{document} = 16%) and FM% (R2\\documentclass[12pt]{minimal} \\usepackage{amsmath} \\usepackage{wasysym} \\usepackage{amsfonts} \\usepackage{amssymb} \\usepackage{amsbsy} \\usepackage{mathrsfs} \\usepackage{upgreek} \\setlength{\\oddsidemargin}{-69pt} \\begin{document}$$R^2$$\\end{document} = 6%). In the group of boys, the significant predictors of CRF were WHtR (R2\\documentclass[12pt]{minimal} \\usepackage{amsmath} \\usepackage{wasysym} \\usepackage{amsfonts} \\usepackage{amssymb} \\usepackage{amsbsy} \\usepackage{mathrsfs} \\usepackage{upgreek} \\setlength{\\oddsidemargin}{-69pt} \\begin{document}$$R^2$$\\end{document} = 8%) and age (R2\\documentclass[12pt]{minimal} \\usepackage{amsmath} \\usepackage{wasysym} \\usepackage{amsfonts} \\usepackage{amssymb} \\usepackage{amsbsy} \\usepackage{mathrsfs} \\usepackage{upgreek} \\setlength{\\oddsidemargin}{-69pt} \\begin{document}$$R^2$$\\end{document} = 2%). Estimating body fat distribution is useful in assessing cardiorespiratory fitness, and this in turn indicates its usefulness in preventive screening of school-aged adolescents.

Obesity and lack of breastfeeding: a perfect storm to augment risk of breast cancer?

Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) is one of the most aggressive subtypes of breast cancer with higher rates of recurrence and distant metastasis, as well as decreased 5-year survival rates. Racial disparities are evident in the incidence and mortality rates of triple negative breast cancer particularly increased in young African American women. Concurrently, young African American women have multiple risk factors for TNBC including higher rates of premenopausal abdominal obesity (higher waist-hip ratio) and lower rates of breastfeeding with higher parity, implicating these factors as potentially contributors to poor outcomes. By understanding the mechanisms of how premenopausal obesity and lack of breastfeeding may be associated with increased risk of triple negative breast cancer, we can determine the best strategies for intervention and awareness to improve outcomes in TNBC.

Association of High-sensitivity C-reactive Protein Level with Obese Normal individuals in North Indian Population.

One of the major inflammatory markers, C-reactive protein (CRP), is often elevated in people who have had a heart attack, vascular problems, stroke, or sudden cardiac death. Obesity is associated with higher CRP levels because adipose tissue activates cytokines. Obesity and overweight increase the risk of heart disease, as does an elevated CRP level. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the association of high-sensitivity CRP (hs-CRP) level with obese normal individuals in North Indian population. This cross-sectional study included 50 individuals between the ages of 18 and 50 years who were overweight or obese. The degree of obesity was determined by anthropometric measurements. The patients' height, weight, waist circumference (WC), hip circumference, and blood pressure were measured. Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay-based CRP level was determined from the blood. The mean WC (cm) was significantly higher in the obese (103.42 ± 9.79) than in the overweight (89.00 ± 8.72). The mean hip circumference (cm) was also significantly smaller in the obese group (99.95 ± 8.07) than in the overweight group (131.29 ± 15.82). The waist-to-hip ratio (WHR) was significantly more in the obese group (88.37%) than in the overweight group (0.00%). WC (cm), hip circumference (cm), WHR, systolic blood pressure (mmHg), and diastolic blood pressure (mmHg) were not significantly correlated with hs-CRP in overweight and obese participants. Compared with obesity, hs-CRP was not related to obesity. A relationship between hs-CRP and WC, hip circumference, and WHR was not found.

Contribution of body adiposity index and conicity index in prediction of metabolic syndrome risk and components

Background and aimsBody adiposity index (BAI) and conicity index have been known as useful measures in predicting cardio-metabolic diseases. This study aimed to evaluate the predictive potential of BAI and conicity index for the risk of metabolic syndrome (MetS) in comparison with body mass index (BMI), waist circumference (WC), hip circumference (HC), and waist-hip ratio (WHR). MethodsIn this cross-sectional study, 174 adults (87 with MetS and 87 healthy individuals) were recruited from a medical weight loss center. Anthropometric parameters, systolic and diastolic blood pressures (SDP and DBP), lipid profile, and fasting blood sugar (FBS) were measured. ResultsAll anthropometric parameters were significantly higher in subjects with MetS than in healthy subjects. Both in MetS and healthy subjects, females had significantly higher BAI and BMI than males. In the fully adjusted model, the odds of MetS increased for each unit increase in BAI by 27 % (p = 0.001), in BMI by 33 % (p = 0.001), in WC by 13 % (p < 0.001), and in HC by 9 % (p = 0.005). ROC curve analysis showed that all the anthropometric parameters displayed clinical importance in predicting MetS, but WHR had the largest area under the curve (AUC) in total, male, and female patients. In participants with MetS, the conicity index was negatively correlated with FBS; BAI was positively associated with HDL level. ConclusionAll studied anthropometric parameters had acceptable accuracy for predicting MetS. Traditional parameters, particularly the WHR, exhibited a higher predictive power concerning MetS. The results underscore the reliability of conventional anthropometric measures in clinical and epidemiological settings.

Association between Obesity and Dental Caries in Adults: An analysis of WHR, and DMFT score.

The relationship between obesity and dental caries in adults presents inconsistent findings in current literature, which necessitates further research to clarify this relationship. This study aimed to examine the association between obesity and dental caries in adults using a nationally representative sample. This study employed data of US adults aged &gt; 20 years from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) pre-pandemic cycle. Obesity was defined using the waist-to-hip ratio (WHR), body mass index (BMI), and waist circumference. Dental caries were assessed using the Decayed, Missing, Filled Teeth (DMFT) scores. Most participants were categorized as individuals with obesity based on the WHR (74.5%) or BMI (72.7%). A significant difference in the DMFT scores and missing teeth was observed between individuals with normal weight and individuals with obesity. After adjusting for the sociodemographic variables, individuals with obesity had a 0.11 higher DMFT score (95% CI: -0.01-0.23). A significant association was observed between the WHR and DMFT scores when age was excluded from the model, demonstrating a higher coefficient of 0.17 (95% CI: 0.05-0.30). A positive association was observed between obesity and dental caries in the US adult population. However, age was found to be a confounding factor in this relationship. This study highlights the relationship between oral and general health, advocating healthcare providers for an integrated health promotion strategy, through comprehensive campaigns addressing obesity, diet, lifestyle, and dental health, aiming for raising awareness and a more effective public health strategy.

Assessment of Paraoxonase 1 and Arylesterase Activities and Lipid Profile in Bodybuilders: A Comparative Study of Physical Activity and Anthropometry on Atherosclerosis.

Background and Objectives: Atherosclerosis, driven by dyslipidaemia and oxidative stress, is a leading cause of cardiovascular morbidity and mortality. This study evaluates the effects of vigorous-intensity bodybuilding exercise (VIBBE) on atherosclerosis biomarkers-including paraoxonase-1 (PON1) and arylesterase (ARE) activities-and lipid profiles in male bodybuilders who do not use anabolic-androgenic steroids. Comparisons were made with individuals engaged in moderate-intensity aerobic exercise (MIAE), as well as overweight/obese sedentary (OOS) and normal-weight sedentary (NWS) individuals. Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted involving 122 healthy male participants aged 18-45 years, divided into four groups: VIBBE (n = 31), OOS (n = 30), MIAE (n = 32), and NWS (n = 29). Anthropometric assessments were performed, and fasting blood samples were collected for biochemical analyses, including lipid profiles and PON1 and ARE activities. Statistical analyses compared the groups and evaluated correlations between adiposity measures and atherosclerosis biomarkers. Results: The VIBBE group exhibited significantly lower levels of low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C), triglycerides (TG), and logarithm of the TG to high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) ratio [log(TG/HDL-C)] compared to the OOS group (p < 0.05 for all), indicating improved lipid profiles. However, these improvements were not significant when compared to the NWS group (p > 0.05), suggesting that VIBBE may not provide additional lipid profile benefits beyond those associated with normal weight status. PON1 and ARE activities were significantly lower in the VIBBE group compared to the MIAE group (p < 0.05 for both), suggesting that VIBBE may not effectively enhance antioxidant defences. Correlation analyses revealed significant inverse relationships between PON1 and ARE activities and adiposity measures, including body mass index (BMI), waist-to-hip ratio (WHR), waist-to-height ratio (WHtR), body fat percentage (BFP), fat mass index (FMI), and obesity degree (OD) (p < 0.05 for all). Positive correlations were observed between oxLDL and log(TG/HDL-C) and adiposity measures (p < 0.05 for all). Conclusions: Vigorous-intensity bodybuilding exercise improves certain lipid parameters compared to sedentary obese individuals but does not significantly enhance antioxidant enzyme activities or further improve lipid profiles beyond those observed in normal-weight sedentary men. Conversely, moderate-intensity aerobic exercise significantly enhances PON1 and ARE activities and improves lipid profiles, offering superior cardiovascular benefits. These findings underscore the importance of incorporating moderate-intensity aerobic exercise into physical activity guidelines to optimize cardiovascular health by balancing improvements in lipid metabolism with enhanced antioxidant defences.

Relation of mitochondrial DNA copy number and variants with the clinical characteristics of polycystic ovary syndrome

Mounting evidences suggests mitochondrial dysfunction as a novel contributor in the pathogenesis of PCOS. Herein, we analyzed mtDNA copy number, a biomarker of mitochondrial function in women with PCOS and non-PCOS participants and study its correlation with their clinical characteristics. In this study, we further analyzed association of 383 mtDNA variants, as reported previously by us, with characteristic traits of PCOS and perform structural analysis of mutated protein. Our results indicate relative mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) copy number to be significantly reduced in women with PCOS compared to non-PCOS group and significantly inversely related to waist to hip ratio (WHR), triglycerides and positively related to high density lipoprotein-cholesterol (HDL-C). After adjustment of the age in the PCOS group, significantly negative correlation of mtDNA copy number with WHR was observed. Unsupervised hierarchical clustering analysis revealed rare, low heteroplasmic mtDNA variants such as 12556G, 1488T, 9200G, 9670G, 3308G, 14480G, 15914T and 5426G to be strongly associated with PCOS related traits. Among these variants, variant 12256G in ND5 gene affected both the flexibility and overall stability of the protein structure. This study is first to reveal significant correlation of mtDNA copy number with WHR in women with PCOS indicating link between mitochondrial dysfunction with central obesity in PCOS. we also first time showed association of rare mtDNA variants with characteristics traits of PCOS highlighting the clinical significance of rare mtDNA variants, which may cumulatively act as early predictors of risk of PCOS and its related comorbidities which may help in the management of PCOS.

Association of Age at Menarche with General and Abdominal Obesity in Young Women.

Background and Objectives: Age at menarche is related to various biological and socioeconomic factors in childhood. The aim of the study was to examine the association of age at menarche with general and abdominal obesity in young women. Materials and Methods: A transversal anthropometric survey was conducted with 102 females from 21 to 25 years of age. The surveyed traits included height, weight, waist circumference (WC) and hip circumference (HC). General obesity was assessed using the body mass index (BMI) and abdominal obesity by WC, waist-to-hip ratio (WHR) and waist-to-height ratio (WHtR). A retrospective method was used for collecting age at menarche data. Results: The average age at menarche is 12.80 years. Early menarcheal age (<12 years) is detected in 25.5% of young females, while late onset of menarche (>14 years) is recorded for 20.6% of subjects. Early menarche age subjects exhibit significantly higher BMI, WC and WHtR in comparison with their late menarche age peers. There is a significant negative correlation between BMI, WC and WHtR values and menarcheal age. Late age at menarche is associated with higher probability of underweight status (BMI < 18.5 and/or WHtR < 0.4). Conclusions: Age at menarche has a negative correlation with general and abdominal obesity. Young women with early age at menarche show statistically higher values of BMI, WC and WHtR, while those with late menarcheal age show greater susceptibility to becoming underweight.

Association of Abdominal Obesity and Diabetes among the Adult Tribal Population in Tamil Nadu

Background: Previously overweight and obesity are considered to be an issue of high-income countries but now increasingly becoming more prevalent in low-income and middle-income countries. Obesity and overweight are growing health issues in India. It is important to determine the quantum of the risk contribution by individual risk factor siuch as abdominal obesity. Aims: To find out the association of abdominal obesity and diabetes among the adult tribal population. Methods and Material: A cross-sectional study was conducted using multi-stage random sampling techniques. Using a pretested validated modified Stepwise questionnaire, a detailed interview with the participants aged above 30 years were performed. Random blood sugar and anthropometric parameters were estimated for all the participants. Chi-square test and multivariate regression analysis were used to study association. Results: Prevalence of abdominal obesity was 49.6% [211] among the study participants. Prevalence of diabetes was 7.8% [33] among the study population and 92.2% [392] of them were nondiabetic. Normal WHR was seen among 27.3% [9] of the diabetic individuals. High WHR was seen among 72.7% [24] of diabetic individuals. Gender, Illiterate, BMI, and waist-hip ratio shows significant association with diabetes. Conclusions: The prevalence of abdominal obesity was higher in the study population. As this burden among tribal people is on the increasing trend when compared with other general populations, effective strategies to prevent this have to be devised among the tribal population.

Proteo-genomic analyses in relatively lean Chinese adults identify proteins and pathways that affect general and central adiposity levels

Adiposity is an established risk factor for multiple diseases, but the causal relationships of different adiposity types with circulating protein biomarkers have not been systematically investigated. We examine the causal associations of general and central adiposity with 2923 plasma proteins among 3977 Chinese adults (mean BMI = 23.9 kg/m²). Genetically-predicted body mass index (BMI), body fat percentage (BF%), waist circumference (WC), and waist-to-hip ratio (WHR) are significantly (FDR < 0.05) associated with 399, 239, 436, and 283 proteins, respectively, with 80 proteins associated with all four and 275 with only one adiposity trait. WHR is associated with the most proteins (n = 90) after adjusting for other adiposity traits. These associations are largely replicated in Europeans (mean BMI = 27.4 kg/m²). Two-sample Mendelian randomisation (MR) analyses in East Asians using cis-protein quantitative trait locus (cis-pQTLs) identified in GWAS find 30/2 proteins significantly affect levels of BMI/WC, respectively, with 10 showing evidence of colocalisation, and seven (inter-alpha-trypsin inhibitor heavy chain H3, complement factor B, EGF-containing fibulin-like extracellular matrix protein 1, thioredoxin domain-containing protein 15, alpha-2-antiplasmin, fibronectin, mimecan) are replicated in separate MR using different cis-pQTLs identified in Europeans. These findings identified potential novel mechanisms and targets, to our knowledge, for improved treatment and prevention of obesity and associated diseases.

A Comparative Analysis of Serum Irisin Levels and Body Composition Indices in Women With and Without Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS).

Introduction Polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) is a prevalent endocrine-metabolic disorder impacting women of reproductive age, often manifesting during adolescence. This study aimed to determine serum irisin levels in subjects with PCOS compared to healthy controls and explore the correlation between irisin levels and body composition indices. Methods A cross-sectional study was conducted at a tertiary care hospital. Thirty-three women with PCOS and 32 healthy, age-matched controls were recruited. Relevant socio-demographic and clinical data were collected, and body composition was analyzed using bioelectrical impedance analysis (BIA). Serum irisin levels were measured using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA), and statistical analysis was performed using CoGuide software (Evidencian Research Associates, Bengaluru, India). Results PCOS subjects exhibited significantly higher levels of clinical features associated with hyperandrogenism, including elevated systolic (SBP) and diastolic blood pressure (DBP), body mass index, waist-hip ratio, total cholesterol, low-density lipoproteins (LDL), serum testosterone, body fat percentage, subcutaneous fat percentage, visceral fat percentage, and fat mass index, along with lower high-density lipoprotein levels and lean mass percentage, compared to controls. Serum irisin levels were significantly higher in PCOS cases (10.82 (8.5-14.31) ng/mL) than in controls (2.57 (2.19-4.65) ng/mL). There was a moderate positive correlation between serum irisin and SBP, DBP, hirsutism, total cholesterol, LDL, visceral fat, and serum testosterone levels. Weak correlations were observed between serum irisin and other body fat indices. Subjects with metabolic syndrome exhibited higher irisin levels and significantly elevated body composition indices, including body fat percentage, visceral fat percentage, fat mass index, and fat-free mass index, compared to those without metabolic syndrome. Conclusions PCOS subjects have elevated serum irisin levels, which correlate positively with clinical and biochemical hyperandrogenism, total cholesterol, LDL, and visceral fat. These findings suggest that irisin may play a role in the metabolic and hormonal dysregulation observed in PCOS.

New Insights into Health Conditions Related to Malfunctions in Clock Genes

Chronotypes play a crucial role in regulating sleep–wake cycles and overall health. The aim of this study was to investigate chronotype, sleep quality, polymorphisms of clock genes and the level of leptin in serum. We used standardized questionnaires to assess chronotype and sleep quality. Genetic analysis was performed to determine the selected clock gene polymorphism. Serum leptin level was measured by the Elisa method. The results showed that serum leptin concentration was elevated in women, as well as in men who had a high waist-to-hip ratio (WHR) and body mass index (BMI). The evidence indicated that younger students (&lt;22 years old) were most likely to experience poor sleep quality. Nevertheless, our multivariate analysis revealed that young age and a morning-oriented chronotype were associated with better sleep quality. We noted that clock gene polymorphisms were present in 28.6% of the participants. Moreover, polymorphisms of PER1 c.2247C&gt;T (rs2735611) and PER2 c.-12C&gt;G (rs2304672) genes were associated with serum leptin level and chronotype, respectively. These findings provide insights into the relationships between chronotype, sleep quality, clock gene polymorphisms and obesity risk in biomedical students. Understanding these factors can contribute to better sleep management and potential interventions to improve health outcomes in humans.

Proteomic Signature of BMI and Risk of Cardiovascular Disease.

Obesity, defined by body mass index (BMI) alone, is a metabolically heterogeneous disorder with distinct cardiovascular manifestations across individuals. This study aimed to investigate the associations of a proteomic signature of BMI with risk of major subtypes of cardiovascular disease (CVD). A total of 40 089 participants from UK Biobank, free of CVD at baseline, had complete data on proteomic data measured by the Olink assay. A BMI-proteomic score (pro-BMI score) was calculated from 67 pre-identified plasma proteins associated with BMI. A higher pro-BMI score was significantly associated with higher risks of ischemic heart disease (IHD) and heart failure (HF), but not with risk of stroke. Comparing the highest with the lowest quartiles, the adjusted hazard ratio (HR) for IHD was 1.49 (95% CI, 1.32-1.67) (P-trend < 0.001), and the adjusted HR for HF was 1.52 (95% CI, 1.25-1.85) (P-trend < 0.001). Further analyses showed that the association of pro-BMI score with HF risk was largely driven by the actual BMI, whereas the association of the pro-BMI score with IHD risk was independent of actual BMI and waist-to-hip ratio (WHR). The association between pro-BMI score and IHD risk appeared to be stronger in the normal BMI group than other BMI groups (P-interaction = 0.004) and stronger in the normal WHR group than the high WHR group (P-interaction = 0.049). Higher pro-BMI score is significantly associated with higher IHD risk, independent of actual BMI levels. Our findings suggest that plasma proteins hold promise as complementary markers for diagnosing obesity and may facilitate personalized interventions.