Effects of age and gender on concentration of lipid parameters and glucose in elderly patients

Abstract

Objective: Lipids have significant biochemical functions, but their excess can also be a high-risk factor for cardiovascular disease (CVD). Glucose levels, diabetes and as well aging seriously contribute in increasing the prevalence of CVD. The main aim of the study is to analyze the correlation between age and gender with the concentration of lipid parameters and glucose in elderly patients. Material and methods: A total of 50 patients selected from the Medical Biochemistry Laboratory in Bitola were included in the study. Triglycerides (TG), total cholesterol (TC), and fasting blood glucose levels were measured quantitatively using standard methods. Results were evaluated to identify a potential association between age, gender and blood glucose as well as lipid parameters. Results: The selected group consisted in 50 patients, of whom 24 (48%) males and 26 (52%) females. The age ranged between 55 and 83 years old, with a median age of 72. The median value of each was as follows: triglycerides 1,614 mmol/l (ranging 0.5-5.9 mmol/l), cholesterol 5.464 mmol/l (ranging 3.3-7.7 mmol/l) and glucose 6.85 mmol/l (ranging 4.8-13.4 mmol/l). We compared the parameters regarding gender and age. No correlation was found when comparing the age and value of triglycerides or cholesterol, while regarding the glucose status, Pearson`s correlation was not statistically significant (p=0.06). Chi-squared test regarding the gender and the normal or results above the reference value showed a statistical significance regarding the triglycerides status and gender (p=0.011). There was no statistical significance regarding gender and results of cholesterol and glucose levels. Conclusion: Our results show a plausible correlation between these parameters and the gender of the patients. Considering the increasing age, decreasing levels of hormones especially estrogen in women, factors such as lifestyle and habits, regular checkups are required.