Biomarkers for Gout: Could Insulin Resistance be the Key?

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Podiatrists often consult with patients that have insulin resistance and related syndromes as part of their work in managing lower extremity risks of conditions like prediabetes. A recent study took the link between insulin resistance and gout development a step further and investigated a relevant biomarker’s impact on this association in the US.¹

Triglyceride index (TyG) is a biomarker for insulin resistance, and the researchers conducted a cross-sectional study in adults with data on both TyG index and gout in the 2007–2017 National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES). TyG index calculations take place via a formula using both fasting triglyceride and fasting glucose levels.¹ The study’s review encompassed over 11,000 patients, nearly 50:50 in gender distribution, 69.63% Caucasian, and mostly (73.26%) adults aged 60 and under.¹

After all statistical adjustments, they did find that each unit of increase in the TyG index resulted in a 40% higher risk of gout. Their analysis did not reveal any significant impact from factors like marital status, age, race, education, hypertension, alcohol use, diabetes, or smoking status.¹

Overall, the authors contend that TyG index is a reliable biomarker for insulin resistance, and their data suggest that it, in turn, may reflect gout risk in US adults.¹ They feel this could show results with encouraging management of insulin resistance, and a possible benefit as an option to detect gout itself.¹

Reference
1.        Li T, Zhang H, Wu Q, et al. Association between triglyceride glycemic index and gout in US adults. J Health Popul Nutr. 2024;43:115. https://doi.org/10.1186/s41043-024-00613-4