Evaluation of the Triglyceride to High-Density Lipoprotein Cholesterol (TAG/HDL) Ratio as a Biomarker for Insulin Resistance in South Indian Male Patients with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus

Abstract

Background: Insulin resistance plays a pivotal role in the progression of Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus (T2DM), and the triglyceride to high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (TAG/HDL) ratio has been proposed as a marker for both insulin resistance and cardiovascular risk. This study aims to assess the TAG/HDL ratio as a biomarker for insulin resistance in male T2DM patients from the South Indian population.

Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted with 30 male T2DM patients aged 30–60 years. Anthropometric measurements, lipid profiles, fasting insulin, fasting glucose, and HbA1c were recorded. The TAG/HDL ratio was calculated and correlated with insulin resistance using Pearson’s correlation coefficient.

Results: Elevated triglyceride levels were strongly associated with insulin resistance, showing a significant correlation (p = 0.0021). However, the TAG/HDL ratio did not demonstrate a significant correlation with insulin resistance in this cohort (p = 0.1882). These findings suggest that while the TAG/HDL ratio may not be a reliable marker for insulin resistance in this population, elevated triglycerides alone are strong indicators of metabolic dysfunction.

Conclusion: The TAG/HDL ratio did not serve as a significant marker for insulin resistance in male T2DM patients. However, elevated triglycerides should be monitored closely, and a comprehensive lipid profile, along with thyroid function assessments, may provide better insight into managing insulin resistance in T2DM patients.