Association between fasting insulin and high-sensitivity C reactive protein in Korean adults

BACKGROUND High-sensitivity C reactive protein (hs-CRP) is a reliable indicator of atherosclerotic diseases and is associated with hyperinsulinaemia. The purpose of this study is to examine the association between hs-CRP and fasting insulin levels in Korean adults not taking medication for hypertension, dyslipidaemia or diabetes, nor provided with specific dietary advice. METHODS This cross-sectional study included 2588 subjects who participated in the 2015 Korean National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey. High-risk hs-CRP was defined as hs-CRP>2 mg/L. Subjects were divided into four groups with fasting insulin (<5, 5-10, 10-15,>15 uIU/mL). RESULTS The mean hs-CRP in our sample was 1.22 mg/L. hs-CRP was positively associated with fasting insulin level. The occurrence of high-risk hs-CRP with increasing fasting insulin levels was 7.6%, 9.8%, 19.1% and 28.2%, respectively. In comparing high-risk hs-CRP between the highest (>15 µIU/mL) and lowest (<5 µIU/mL) insulin groups, the OR (95% CI) was 4.59 (2.77-7.58). triglycerides/high-density lipoprotein ratio was also associated with hs-CRP. Low-density lipoprotein cholesterol was not associated with hs-CRP. CONCLUSIONS Higher level of fasting insulin is positively associated with high-risk hs-CRP.