Age- and sex-specific profiles of temporal fasting plasma glucose variability in a population undergoing routine health screening

BackgroundFasting plasma glucose (FPG) variability is a significant predictor of mortality, especially in patients with poor glycemic control. This study aimed to explore the temporal age- and sex-specific profiles of temporal FPG variability in a Chinese population undergoing routine health screening and to guide the development of targeted public health interventions for the prevention and control of diabetes.MethodsIn this cross-sectional study, we used a general linear model to compare differences in temporal FPG values between sexes and across age groups in 101,886 Nanjing residents who underwent a routine physical health examination at the Health Management Center, the First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, in 2018. The variability of FPG as a function of time, age, and sex, independently and in combination, was analyzed.ResultsThe participants included 57,455 (56.4%) males and 44,431 (43.6%) females, with a meanSD age of 42.8 +/- 15.0years. The average +/- SD FPG level was 5.5 +/- 1.1mmol/L. The monthly variation contributed to 22% of the overall FPG variability. A significant main effect for the age group was observed (F=7.39, P<0.05), with an excellent fitting effect (Eta-squared =0.15). The variability of FPG showed sex differences in the percentage difference of the coefficient of variation, which was 34.1% higher in males than females. There were significant interaction effects for month*age*sex and day*age*sex.Conclusions Temporal variability in FPG is evident in the general Chinese population and is affected by both age and sex. To avoid complications associated with FPG variability, interventions should be directed at females and males at specific ages for optimal control of FPG variability and to reduce the risk of diabetes and cardiovascular events.

Automated summary

The study found that fasting plasma glucose (FPG) variability is influenced by age and sex, with males showing 34.1% higher variability compared to females. Variability also differs across age groups, with significant effects observed for month and date interactions. Intervention strategies should target specific age groups and sexes to optimize FPG control and reduce the risk of diabetes and cardiovascular events.