Glucose metabolism affects coagulation factors: The NEO study

Area of Science:

• Endocrinology
• Hematology
• Epidemiology

Background:

• The relationship between diabetes and venous thromboembolism (VT) is not fully understood.
• The underlying biological mechanisms linking diabetes to VT require further investigation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the association between glucose concentrations and key coagulation factors in a general population.
• To explore potential links between glycemic control and hemostasis.

Main Methods:

• Cross-sectional analysis of 5778 participants (aged 45-65) from the Netherlands Epidemiology of Obesity (NEO) study.
• Linear regression was used to examine associations between fasting glucose, HbA1c, postprandial glucose, and levels of Factor VIII, IX, XI, and fibrinogen.
• Adjustments were made for confounding factors and total body fat.

Main Results:

• Higher fasting glucose, HbA1c, and postprandial glucose were associated with elevated levels of Factor VIII, Factor IX, and Factor XI.
• Individuals with impaired or high fasting glucose, and diabetes mellitus, exhibited higher mean levels of these factors compared to those with normal glucose metabolism.
• Associations remained significant after adjusting for confounders, though some attenuated after accounting for total body fat, with fibrinogen showing less consistent association with glucose.

Conclusions:

• Glucose concentrations (fasting, HbA1c, postprandial) are positively associated with coagulation factors Factor VIII, Factor IX, and Factor XI.
• These findings suggest a potential prothrombotic state in individuals with elevated glucose levels, potentially contributing to vascular complications.