Hyperinsulinaemia as an independent risk factor for atherosclerosis

There is both epidemiological evidence that elevated insulin levels are associated with clinical atherosclerosis and experimental evidence that insulin has actions on the arterial wall which may be relevant to the development of atheromatous lesions. This paper reviews the evidence and puts forward the hypothesis that insulin may have a role in the pathogenesis of atherosclerosis. If this hypothesis is correct, measures to reduce insulin levels, including weigh reduction, exercise and improved methods for treating diabetes, may contribute to the prevention of atherosclerosis.