Integral Metabolic Indicators in the Development of Obesity in Arctic Residents Differing by Ethnicity

To compare the variability of metabolic parameters in the development of obesity, as determined by BMI, in adult indigenous and Caucasian residents living in the territories of the Russian Arctic and having a sedentary lifestyle.

BMI was used to identify respondents with normal weight, overweight, and obesity. The insulin content and metabolic parameters, including fatty acids (FA), were determined, and HOMA-IR was calculated.

The progression of obesity was accompanied by an augmentation in triglyceride (TG) concentrations, an increase in FA levels. In women, the level of high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) decreased. Concurrently, an escalation in glucose levels was observed among Caucasian women, while Caucasian men exhibited an increase in low-density lipoprotein cholesterol. A rise in insulin levels and HOMA-IR was also observed, with this rise being more pronounced among Caucasian subjects. Conversely, indigenous women exhibited lower levels of FAs, TG, and glucose compared to their Caucasian counterparts. Among the male population, Caucasian men have higher levels of HDL-C.

Overweight and obesity are prevalent among the population of the Russian Arctic, irrespective of ethnicity. However, a notable exception is observed among indigenous men, who exhibit a lower prevalence of obesity (13.6%). In both ethnic groups, obesity was associated with cardiometabolic risk factors, particularly among female subjects. However, the metabolic consequences of obesity in the indigenous population were comparatively less pronounced than in the Caucasian population. Furthermore, selective insulin resistance may be present in indigenous populations, particularly in the context of lower glucose and FAs levels.