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Relationship between thyroid-stimulating hormone and insulin in euthyroid obese men
J C Galofré1, P Pujante, C Abreu
1Department of Endocrinology, University Clinic, University of Navarra, Pamplona, Spain. jcgalofre@unav.es
Annals of Nutrition & Metabolism
|November 18, 2008
Summary
In obese males, insulin resistance is linked to thyroid dysfunction. This association appears to lessen with increasing age, suggesting a complex interplay between metabolic health and thyroid function.
Area of Science:
- Endocrinology
- Metabolic Health
Background:
- Obesity is linked to hypothyroidism and impaired insulin sensitivity.
- Limited research explores the direct association between insulin sensitivity and thyroid function.
- This study investigates these relationships in obese males.
Purpose of the Study:
- To examine the relationship between insulin sensitivity and thyroid function in obese males.
- To identify correlations between thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH), insulin levels, and body mass index (BMI).
Main Methods:
- Cross-sectional study of 144 euthyroid obese males (mean age 42.6, mean BMI 41.8).
- Measured baseline serum TSH, insulin, and glucose concentrations.
- Utilized age-adjusted linear regression analysis with TSH as the dependent variable.
Main Results:
- A positive correlation was found between BMI and TSH (r=0.22, p<0.05).
- Serum insulin levels showed a positive correlation with TSH, particularly in those with higher insulin values (r=0.40, p<0.01).
- Negative correlations were observed between age and TSH (r=-0.35, p<0.05).
Conclusions:
- Insulin resistance is significantly associated with impaired thyroid function in obese males.
- The relationship between insulin resistance and thyroid function is influenced by age.
- Findings suggest a need for further research into metabolic and thyroid health in obese populations.
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