Gender differences in C-reactive protein, interleukin-1 receptor antagonist and adiponectin levels in the metabolic syndrome: a population-based study

Aims We explored gender differences in the association of high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP), interleukin-1 receptor antagonist (IL-1Ra) and adiponectin with the metabolic syndrome (MetS) defined by the National Cholesterol Education Program (NCEP) and the International Diabetes Federation (IDF) criteria. Methods A population-based study of 923 middle-aged subjects in Pieksamaki, East Finland. Results The prevalence of the MetS according to the IDF and NCEP definitions was 38% and 34% in men (N = 405) and 34% and 27% in women (N = 497), respectively. hs-CRP and IL-1Ra levels were higher in subjects with the MetS compared with those without the MetS in both sexes (P < 0.001). The levels of hs-CRP (P < 0.001) and IL-1Ra (P = 0.0016 for NCEP criteria, P = 0.0028 for IDF criteria) were significantly higher in women with MetS than in men with MetS. In contrast, in subjects without MetS, no gender differences in the levels of hs-CRP or IL-1Ra were found. Conclusion Women with MetS, defined by the IDF or NCEP criteria, had higher levels of hs-CRP and IL-1Ra than did men with MetS. Thus, low-grade inflammation may contribute to the high risk of cardiovascular disease in women with MetS.