Association of Atherogenic Index of Plasma With Prediabetics-A Cross-Sectional Study

Prediabetes, defined as elevated blood glucose levels below the diabetic threshold, is a worldwide concern. In Pakistan, it is highly prevalent. Preventing the progression of diabetes requires early identification of high-risk people. The Atherogenic Index of Plasma (AIP) has been proposed as an indicator of insulin resistance and cardiovascular risk. Our study content is to explore the relationship between AIP and metabolic indicators in patients with prediabetes.

A cross-sectional study was conducted at a tertiary care hospital after IRB approval. A total of 334 prediabetic individuals aged 18-60 years, with no history of diabetes or use of lipid/glucose-altering medications, were included. Anthropometric, biochemical, and demographic information was gathered, including fasting glucose, HbA1c (Glycated Haemoglobin), and lipid profiles. Different AIP quartiles were assigned to the participants. ANOVA, Chi-square, and multivariate regression with confounder adjustment were used in the statistical study.

Significant differences were observed across AIP quartiles. Higher AIP was associated with male gender, older age, higher BMI, lower HDL (High Density Lipoprotein), and elevated triglycerides. Fasting glucose and insulin increased with AIP, while HbA1c showed no significant variation. In multivariate analysis, HDL and triglycerides remained the strongest independent predictors of AIP.

AIP is significantly linked with worsening metabolic indicators in prediabetics, highlighting its potential as a simple, cost-effective screening tool. Adding AIP into routine evaluations could help early identification and prevention of diabetes and associated cardiovascular disease.