TyG-BMI Emerges as Potential Diagnostic Index for Hypertension

Hypertension, continues to be a prevalent health concern worldwide. The interplay between insulin resistance (IR), obesity, and hypertension has been the focus of numerous research studies. In a recent investigation, Hamid Reza Nikbakht and team explored the connection between the triglyceride-glucose body mass index (TyG-BMI) and the risk of hypertension in adults.

The study, which involved 8,610 participants from the baseline phase of the Ravansar non-communicable diseases (RaNCD) project in Iran, utilized a logistic regression model to assess the relationship between TyG-BMI and hypertension. Additionally, the researchers employed Receiver Operating Characteristic (ROC) curve analysis to determine the predictive power of TyG-BMI concerning hypertension.

The findings revealed that among the participants, consisting of 4,176 men and 4,434 women with an average age of 46.74 years, anthropometric indices were significantly higher in those with hypertension compared to normotensive individuals (P < 0.001). Interestingly, physical activity levels were notably higher in the bottom quartiles (P < 0.001).

Regarding the TyG-BMI index, the study unveiled a significant association with hypertension risk. The odds of developing hypertension were 3.10 times higher (95% CI: 2.28, 4.16) in individuals belonging to the highest TyG-BMI quartile compared to those in the bottom quartile. This observation suggests that TyG-BMI may serve as a potential indicator for early diagnosis of hypertension.

The ROC curve analysis demonstrated that the discriminating ability of TyG-BMI in predicting blood pressure was 61% (AUC: 0.61; 95% CI: 0.57, 0.63), which was higher than BMI and TyG alone. This highlights the potential value of incorporating the TyG-BMI index in assessing hypertension risk more accurately.

The link between hypertension and insulin resistance as well as obesity has been established in various studies. Notably, TyG is considered a reliable surrogate marker for insulin resistance. Therefore, the combination of TyG with BMI appears to offer valuable insights into the risk of hypertension in adults.

The researchers emphasized the importance of lifestyle modifications in managing insulin resistance, obesity, and ultimately preventing hypertension. Weight control through regular physical activity and a healthy diet was recommended as an effective approach to improve insulin resistance and reduce the risk of hypertension.

Source:

Nikbakht, H. R., Najafi, F., Shakiba, E., Darbandi, M., Navabi, J., & Pasdar, Y. (2023). Triglyceride glucose-body mass index and hypertension risk in iranian adults: a population-based study. In BMC Endocrine Disorders (Vol. 23, Issue 1). Springer Science and Business Media LLC. https://doi.org/10.1186/s12902-023-01411-5