Fasting plasma glucose and hemoglobin a1c differ by gender and race among emerging adults

Abstract

To examine the relationship between, and disparities in, glycemic markers among emerging adults. Methods: A diverse group of emerging adults affiliated with a large university located in the Northeast of the US were recruited. Participants self-reported demographic information, and lipids and glycemic markers were assessed using a finger-stick screening with participants fasted for a minimum of 9-12 hours before blood sampling. Results: Data were collected from 217 participants (21±2 years). Regardless of gender or race, no statistically significant relationship was found between FPG and either HbA_1C. However, those of ‘other’ races were found to have significantly higher FPG and HbA_1C compared to non-Hispanic white participants, and gender differences in glycemic markers were only observed among non-Hispanic white participants. Conclusions: While limited by a relatively small sample size, findings reinforce the importance of recognizing racial differences in glycemic markers when diagnosing and treating diabetes given racial disparities were observed in otherwise healthy emerging adults.