HOMEOSTASIS MODEL ASSESSMENT (HOMA) INDEX IN ADOLESCENTS WITH CARDIOVASCULAR RISK FACTORS

Abstract

Several studies have shown the importance of research on risk factors with regard to arterial diseases in adolescents, such as obesity, sedentarism, smoking and hypertension. Diabetes mellitus has not been investigated sufficiently and resistance to insulin (RI) may be a pre-condition which antecedes its appearance. Current analysis evaluated RI in adolescents attended by the Government Health System in Roncador PR Brazil, with at least one cardiovascular risk factor. Data were collected between November 2011 and March 2012 and laboratory tests for lipids (total cholesterol, triglycerides, LDL and HDL cholesterol), glucose and insulin, and Body Mass Index (BMI) of 45 adolescents. RI was assessed by HOMA-RI index. Results showed that 64% of the adolescents did not practice any physical activities, 22% were obese and more than 45% had dyslipidemia. The prevalence of altered HOMA-RI reached 7%, with an average of 1.04 ± 0.96. A significant co-relationship existed between HOMA-RI rates and BMI (r = 0.54) and between HOMA-RI and triglycerides (r = 0.35). Results showed that programs for the promotion of health among adolescents are required, coupled to regular physical exercises and a balanced diet to improve their life style and prevent future co-morbidities such as cardiovascular diseases and diabetes mellitus.