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Association between γ-glutamyltransferase and prehypertension
Xuzhen Qin1, Guodong Tang, Ling Qiu
1Department of Clinical Laboratory, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Beijing, PR China.
Molecular Medicine Reports
|January 24, 2012
Summary
Elevated gamma-glutamyltransferase (GGT) levels are linked to prehypertension in Chinese adults. Higher GGT may predict increased risk, highlighting its potential as a predictive biomarker.
Area of Science:
- Cardiovascular Health
- Biochemical Markers
- Preventive Medicine
Background:
- Prehypertension is a significant risk factor for cardiovascular diseases.
- Gamma-glutamyltransferase (GGT) is a liver enzyme with potential links to cardiovascular health.
- Limited data exist on the association between GGT and prehypertension in Chinese populations.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the association between baseline serum GGT levels and prehypertension in a Chinese cohort.
- To explore potential subgroup differences in this association.
Main Methods:
- A cross-sectional study was conducted with 2,205 participants from Heilongjiang Province, China.
- Multiple logistic regression and Receiver Operating Characteristic (ROC) analyses were employed.
- Data were analyzed based on baseline GGT levels and prehypertension status.
Main Results:
- A significant association was found between higher baseline GGT levels (quartile 4 vs. quartile 1) and prehypertension (OR=1.59, 95% CI: 1.18-2.16).
- The association was stronger in specific subgroups: Koreans, men, current alcohol drinkers, and individuals with pre-diabetes.
- An elevated GGT level above 20 U/l indicated an increased risk of developing prehypertension.
Conclusions:
- Baseline serum GGT is a potential predictor of prehypertension in the Chinese population.
- GGT's role extends beyond liver function, suggesting its utility in cardiovascular risk assessment.
- Further research is warranted to elucidate the mechanisms and clinical implications.
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