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Insulin resistance: Is it time for primary prevention?
Valentina Mercurio1, Guido Carlomagno, Valeria Fazio
1Valentina Mercurio, Guido Carlomagno, Valeria Fazio, Serafino Fazio, Department of Internal Medicine, Cardiovascular and Immunologic Sciences, Federico II University of Naples, 80131 Napoli, Italy.
World Journal of Cardiology
|January 27, 2012
Summary
Insulin resistance, a condition where the body needs more insulin for normal glucose tolerance, is linked to hyperinsulinemia. Early detection of insulin resistance is crucial for preventing type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular diseases.
Area of Science:
- Metabolic disorders
- Endocrinology
- Cardiovascular science
Background:
- Insulin resistance is a condition of reduced cellular response to insulin.
- This leads to elevated insulin levels (hyperinsulinemia) to maintain glucose homeostasis.
- It is a common feature in type 2 diabetes, obesity, dyslipidemia, hypertension, and atherosclerosis.
Purpose of the Study:
- To highlight the significance of insulin resistance in metabolic and cardiovascular diseases.
- To emphasize the role of insulin resistance in the development of atherosclerosis.
- To underscore the importance of early detection for therapeutic intervention.
Main Methods:
- This abstract is based on a review of existing literature.
- It synthesizes information on the pathophysiology and clinical implications of insulin resistance.
- No new experimental data were generated.
Main Results:
- Insulin resistance is characterized by decreased insulin sensitivity and responsiveness.
- Hyperinsulinemia is a hallmark of insulin resistance states.
- Endothelial dysfunction, linked to insulin resistance, drives atherosclerosis progression.
Conclusions:
- Insulin resistance is an early abnormality in type 2 diabetes.
- It is a key mechanism underlying hypertension and cardiovascular diseases.
- Early identification of insulin resistance is vital for mitigating risks of diabetes and cardiovascular complications.
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