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Objective: To investigate if there is a reduced risk of type 1 diabetes in children breastfed or exclusively breastfed by performing a pooled analysis with adjustment for recognized confounders.Research Design and Methods: Relevant studies were identified from literature searches using MEDLINE, Web of Science, and EMBASE. Authors of relevant studies were asked to provide individual participant data or conduct prespecified analyses. Meta-analysis techniques were used to combine odds ratios (ORs) and investigate heterogeneity between studies.Results: Data were available from 43 studies including 9,874 patients with type 1 diabetes. Overall, there was a reduction in the risk of diabetes after exclusive breast-feeding for >2 weeks (20 studies; OR = 0.75, 95% CI 0.64-0.88), the association after exclusive breast-feeding for >3 months was weaker (30 studies; OR = 0.87, 95% CI 0.75-1.00), and no association was observed after (nonexclusive) breast-feeding for >2 weeks (28 studies; OR = 0.93, 95% CI 0.81-1.07) or >3 months (29 studies; OR = 0.88, 95% CI 0.78-1.00). These associations were all subject to marked heterogeneity (I(2) = 58, 76, 54, and 68%, respectively). In studies with lower risk of bias, the reduced risk after exclusive breast-feeding for >2 weeks remained (12 studies; OR = 0.86, 95% CI 0.75-0.99), and heterogeneity was reduced (I(2) = 0%). Adjustments for potential confounders altered these estimates very little.Conclusions: The pooled analysis suggests weak protective associations between exclusive breast-feeding and type 1 diabetes risk. However, these findings are difficult to interpret because of the marked variation in effect and possible biases (particularly recall bias) inherent in the included studies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The antiviral restriction factor IFN-induced transmembrane protein 3 (IFITM3) inhibits cell entry of a number of viruses, and genetic diversity within IFITM3 determines susceptibility to viral disease in humans. Here, we used the murine CMV (MCMV) model of infection to determine that IFITM3 limits herpesvirus-associated pathogenesis without directly preventing virus replication. Instead, IFITM3 promoted antiviral cellular immunity through the restriction of virus-induced lymphopenia, apoptosis-independent NK cell death, and loss of T cells. Viral disease in Ifitm3-/- mice was accompanied by elevated production of cytokines, most notably IL-6. IFITM3 inhibited IL-6 production by myeloid cells in response to replicating and nonreplicating virus as well as following stimulation with the TLR ligands Poly(I:C) and CpG. Although IL-6 promoted virus-specific T cell responses, uncontrolled IL-6 expression in Ifitm3-/- mice triggered the loss of NK cells and subsequently impaired control of MCMV replication. Thus, IFITM3 represents a checkpoint regulator of antiviral immunity that controls cytokine production to restrict viral pathogenesis. These data suggest the utility of cytokine-targeting strategies in the treatment of virus-infected individuals with impaired IFITM3 activity.

Objective: Vertebral fracture is the most common osteoporotic fracture, affecting quality of life and increasing mortality. Epidemiological data on incidence of vertebral fracture are scarce in Brazil and throughout Latin America. Our aim was to determine vertebral fracture incidence and risk factors in a female Brazilian population., Subjects and Methods: Postmenopausal women with low bone mass were studied from the Brazilian placebo group of Arzoxifene Generations Trial (n = 974), followed for up to 5 years. The primary endpoint was new vertebral fractures, detected by X-Ray. Experimental design defined two strata: A. Osteoporosis or previous vertebral fracture with osteopenia; B. Osteopenia without previous fracture. Previous fracture, T-score, ionized calcium, alkaline phosphatase, creatinine and glucose were analyzed at baseline. Crude and adjusted incidence rates of vertebral fractures were estimated and Poisson regression model was used., Results: Incidence rate was 7.7 (95% CI of 5.4 to 10.9) per 1,000 person-years (PY), increasing as a function of age. Women with new vertebral fractures had higher prevalence of previous nonvertebral fracture after menopause, were older and had lower lumbar spine (LS) T-score. Fracture risk increased by 46% for each unit reduction in LS T-score. Variables correlated with new vertebral fracture were age (p = 0.034), LS T-score, stratum A (p = 0.001 for both) and previous nonvertebral fracture after menopause (p = 0.019). In the final model, LS T-score was the strongest predictor., Conclusions: Incidence rate of vertebral fracture of 7.7 per 1,000 PY. Age and previous fractures were associated with new vertebral fracture, but LS T-score was the most important predictor.

Investigation of the determinants of metabolic outcomes associated with non-communicable diseases is increasingly important in developing countries, but such parameters have not been explored extensively during childhood. The present study assessed the impact of weight gain, measured as BMI-for-age Z-scores, on glucose and insulin concentrations, homeostasis model assessment index of insulin resistance (HOMA-IR) values, and systolic and diastolic blood pressure during school years among Amazonian children. A population-based prospective study of 696 children aged >4 to ≤ 10 years with complete anthropometric information at baseline (51% females and 86% of mixed race) was carried out; 411 children had data on metabolic parameters after a median follow-up period of 2.0 years (range 1.7-2.6 years). During follow-up, there was a significant increase in the proportion of overweight children (BMI-for-age Z-score >1) from 10.1 to 15.8% (P= 0.003). In linear regression models adjusted for the child's sex, age, race/ethnicity, baseline household wealth, birth weight and pubertal development stage, for each unit of BMI-for-age Z-score variation during follow-up, an increase of 8.58 (95% CI 7.68, 9.60) pmol/l in fasting plasma insulin concentrations and 1.47 (95% CI 1.30, 1.66) in HOMA-IR values was observed. There was no significant impact of weight gain on glucose concentrations and systolic and diastolic blood pressure. In conclusion, we found evidence that an increase in BMI during a 2-year period affected insulin resistance during school years. Considering the significant increase in overweight in this age group, special attention should be paid to monitoring increases in BMI in children from the Brazilian Amazon.

The aim of this study was to analyze the prevalence of cytological atypia and human papillomavirus infection in Panará indigenous women in 2006-2007. This was a cross-sectional observational study with data obtained from vaginal cervical samples for Pap smear and hybrid capture, colposcopy, and biopsy. The study included 86 females 12 years or older with a history of sexual activity. 10.7% of the women were diagnosed with cytological atypia and 28.6% were infected with high-risk HPV genotypes, which were more common among young women (mean = 25.6 years). Of these, 41.7% were positive for high-risk HPV genotypes 16 and/or 18 and/or 45, and the majority (58.3%) for other high-risk HPV genotypes. The study concludes that this group of indigenous women constitutes a special population, susceptible to develop precursor lesions for cervical cancer and vulnerable to STDs. Preventive measures are required, such as systematic cervical cancer screening and HPV immunization.

The aim of this study was to identify the incidence of metabolic syndrome and related diseases in the Khisêdjê population living in the Xingu Indigenous Park, Mato Grosso State, Brazil, from 1999-2000 to 2010-2011. The study included 78 individuals aged ≥20 years. Data were analyzed using Student t test, linear regression, and Poisson regression. In 10 years of follow-up, cumulative incidence rates were 37.5% for metabolic syndrome, 47.4% for hypetriglyceridemia, 38.9% for arterial hypertension, 32% for central obesity, 30.4% for excess weight, 29.1% for hypercholesterolemia, 25% for low HDLc, 10.4% for high LDLc, and 2.9% for diabetes mellitus. Age proved to be a risk factor for incidence of hypertension, diabetes, and elevated LDLc, regardless of gender; male gender was a protective factor against incidence of central obesity, independently of age. The study showed deterioration of most target health indicators and exposure of the Khisêdjê to high cardiometabolic risk. These results may be related to changes in traditional lifestyle.

A validity test of a Food Frequency Questionnaire was carried out using 50 students of health occupation in São Paulo, Brazil. Therefore, a three day dietary record was used as reference method and variables such as energy, macronutrients and dietary fiber were analyzed. The accordance between the Food Frequency Questionnaire and average data from dietary record was tested with kappa statistics and intra-class correlation coefficients (ICC). Limits of agreement were estimated by the Bland-Altman's method. Better results were found for calories (ICC 0.43; 95%CI 0.17 - 0.63) and non-energy-adjusted nutrients, except dietary fiber (ICC 0.34; 95%CI 0.07 - 0.56). The percentage of individuals classified in the same category of consumption was nearly half (49.8%), while only 16% of them were classified in opposite categories. With the exception of lipids, other analyzed variables tended to be overestimated by the Food Frequency Questionnaire. The Food Frequency Questionnaire is recommended as a method of assessing food intake of university students in studies which focus on calorie estimates and also intend to classify groups into intake categories.

This study aimed to verify the existence of an association between degree of physical activity and presence of metabolic syndrome in the Khisêdjê indigenous group. The authors evaluated 170 individuals 20 years or older, based on demographic data, physical examination, and laboratory tests. The data were analyzed with the chi-square test (p < 0.05), crude and adjusted prevalence ratios (point and 95% confidence intervals), and Student's t-test. Satisfactory results were observed in relation to cardiorespiratory endurance, flexibility, bending of arms and trunk, and measurement of physical activity according to the number of steps/day. Prevalence of metabolic syndrome was 27.8% and was higher in women, the 39-49-year and ≥ 50-year age groups, and in individuals with lower performance on the cardiorespiratory endurance test, horizontal impulse, and number of steps/day. The results indicate the need for greater surveillance in the control and prevention of risk factors for metabolic syndrome.

Objective: To assess the effect of a health promotion program on cardiometabolic risk profile in Japanese-Brazilians., Methods: A total of 466 subjects from a study on diabetes prevalence conducted in the city of Bauru, southeastern Brazil, in 2000 completed a 1-year intervention program (2005-2006) based on healthy diet counseling and physical activity. Changes in blood pressure and metabolic parameters in the 2005-2006 period were compared with annual changes in these same variables in the 2000-2005 period., Results: During the intervention, there were greater annual reductions in mean (SD) waist circumference [-0.5(3.8) vs. 1.2(1.2) cm per year, p<0.001], systolic blood pressure [-4.6(17.9) vs. 1.8(4.3) mmHg per year, p<0.001], 2-hour plasma glucose [-1.2(2.1) vs. -0.2(0.6) mmol/L per year, p<0.001], LDL-cholesterol [-0.3(0.9) vs. -0.1(0.2) mmol/L per year, p<0.001] and Framingham coronary heart disease risk score [-0.25(3.03) vs. 0.11(0.66) per year, p=0.02] but not in triglycerides [0.2(1.6) vs. 0.1(0.42) mmol/L per year, p<0.001], and fasting insulin level [1.2(5.8) vs. -0.7(2.2) IU/mL per year, p<0.001] compared with the pre-intervention period. Significant reductions in the prevalence of impaired fasting glucose/impaired glucose tolerance and diabetes were seen during the intervention (from 58.4% to 35.4%, p<0.001; and from 30.1% to 21.7%, p= 0.004, respectively)., Conclusions: A one-year community-based health promotion program brings cardiometabolic benefits in a high-risk population of Japanese-Brazilians.

This ecological study aimed to describe the spatial distribution of cardiovascular mortality in Paraná State, Brazil (1989-1991 and 2006-2008) and its correlation with socioeconomic variables, using mortality data from the DATASUS database and population data from IBGE. Mortality rates were adjusted by the local empirical Bayesian method. Correlation analysis used the Moran I index and Spearman coefficient. There were no significant correlations or spatial dependence between mortality and socioeconomic variables. Mortality was higher in males in both periods. Cardiovascular mortality declined from 1989-1991 to 2006-2008 and was higher in females. Construction of thematic maps allowed visualization of the regions with highest cardiovascular risk. The decrease in mortality can be partially explained by expanded access to health services and improved living conditions and income.

Background: Prevalence of individuals with a high cardiovascular risk is elevated in elderly populations. Although metabolic syndrome (MS) increases cardiovascular risk, information is scarce on the prevalence of MS in the elderly. In this study we assessed MS prevalence in a population of elderly Japanese-Brazilians using different MS definitions according to waist circumference cutoff values., Material/methods: We studied 339 elderly subjects, 44.8% males, aged between 60 to 88 years (70.1 ± 6.8). MS was defined according to criteria proposed by the Joint Interim Statement in 2009. As waist circumference cutoff point values remain controversial for Asian and Japanese populations, we employed 3 different cutoffs that are commonly used in Japanese epidemiological studies: 1) ≥ 90 cm for men and ≥ 80 cm for women; 2) ≥ 85 cm for men and ≥ 90 cm for women; 3) ≥ 85 cm for men and ≥ 80 cm for women., Results: MS prevalence ranged from 59.9% to 65.8% according to the different definitions. We observed 90% concordance and no statistical difference (p>0.05) in MS prevalence between the 3 definitions. MS diagnosis according to all 3 cutoff values was found in 55.8% of our population, while in only 34.2% was MS discarded by all cutoffs. The prevalence of altered MS components was as follows: arterial blood pressure 82%, fasting glycemia 65.8%, triglyceride 43.4%, and HDL-C levels 36.9%., Conclusions: Elderly Japanese-Brazilians present high metabolic syndrome prevalence independent of waist circumference cutoff values. Concordance between the 3 definitions is high, suggesting that all 3 cutoff values yield similar metabolic syndrome prevalence values in this population.

This study aimed to verify which anthropometric measure of abdominal obesity was the best predictor of all-cause and cardiovascular mortality in Japanese-Brazilians. The study followed 1,581 subjects for 14 years. Socio-demographic, lifestyle, metabolic, and anthropometric data were collected. The dependent variable was vital status (alive or dead) at the end of the study, and the independent variable was presence of abdominal obesity according to different baseline measures. The mortality rate was estimated, and Poisson regression was used to obtain mortality rate ratios with abdominal obesity, adjusted simultaneously for the other variables. The mortality rate was 10.68/thousand person-years. Male gender, age > 60 years, and arterial hypertension were independent risk factors for mortality. The results indicate that prevalence of abdominal obesity was high among Japanese-Brazilians, and that waist/hip ratio was the measure with the greatest capacity to predict mortality (especially cardiovascular mortality) in this group.

Introduction: The food groups conventionally applied in activities of nutritional counseling were established according to their macronutrient content. However, it does not consider recent scientific evidences of the association between food consumption and risk of developing non-communicable chronic diseases., Objective: To propose food groups for the investigation of the association between food consumption and risk of developing type 2 diabetes and associated diseases among Japanese-Brazilians., Methods: Cross-sectional analysis of baseline data of a lifestyle intervention study conducted among Japanese-Brazilians of Bauru, SP, Brazil, from 2005 to 2007. Food intake was assessed by three 24-hour recalls of 640 participants, both genders, aged 30 to 88 years old., Results: Eighteen new food groups were proposed according to their quantity and quality of fat, carbohydrates, sodium, and fiber., Conclusion: The new food groups incorporate recent evidences of the association between diet and the risk of developing type 2 diabetes.

This study aimed to identify factors associated with interruption of exclusive breastfeeding (EBF) in low birth weight infants receiving primary care. This was a cross-sectional study of 170 infants treated at primary care units on the urban periphery of São Paulo, Brazil. The sample included infants with birth weight ≤ 2,500g (including twins) and 5-minute Apgar ≥ 7, followed until the third month of life, and excluded infants/mothers with complications that would impede EBF, besides infant/maternal deaths. Data were collected from forms completed during consultations and patient records. Prevalence ratios were obtained by Poisson regression. The following factors were associated with interruption of EBF in the first three months of life: maternal age ≤ 18 years; informal employment (protective factor); alcohol intake during pregnancy; < 6 prenatal visits; multiple gestations; birth weight ≤ 2,000g; difficulty breastfeeding in the first month; complaints in breastfeeding during the first month; and use of pacifiers in the first two months. Prior knowledge of these factors can help plan measures and policies to increase EBF rates among low birth weight infants.

Background: The incidence rates of childhood onset type 1 diabetes are almost universally increasing across the globe but the aetiology of the disease remains largely unknown. We investigated whether birth order is associated with the risk of childhood diabetes by performing a pooled analysis of previous studies., Methods: Relevant studies published before January 2010 were identified from MEDLINE, Web of Science and EMBASE. Authors of studies provided individual patient data or conducted pre-specified analyses. Meta-analysis techniques were used to derive combined odds ratios (ORs), before and after adjustment for confounders, and investigate heterogeneity., Results: Data were available for 6 cohort and 25 case-control studies, including 11,955 cases of type 1 diabetes. Overall, there was no evidence of an association prior to adjustment for confounders. After adjustment for maternal age at birth and other confounders, a reduction in the risk of diabetes in second- or later born children became apparent [fully adjusted OR = 0.90 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.83-0.98; P = 0.02] but this association varied markedly between studies (I² = 67%). An a priori subgroup analysis showed that the association was stronger and more consistent in children < 5 years of age (n = 25 studies, maternal age adjusted OR = 0.84 95% CI 0.75, 0.93; I² = 23%)., Conclusion: Although the association varied between studies, there was some evidence of a lower risk of childhood onset type 1 diabetes with increasing birth order, particularly in children aged < 5 years. This finding could reflect increased exposure to infections in early life in later born children.

This study aimed to identify and analyze correlates of dietary patterns in residents of Ribeirão Preto, São Paulo State, Brazil. This was a cross-sectional study including both men and women aged > 30 years (n = 930, weighted sample = 2,197). Factor analysis was applied to identify food consumption patterns, using a semi-quantitative questionnaire. Four patterns were identified: (a) obesogenic: associated with more physical activity, more schooling, and age < 40 years; (b) healthy: associated with female gender, individuals without overweight, older adults, central obesity, more physical activity, and higher socioeconomic status; (c) mixed: without overweight, female gender, and younger adults; and (d) popular: associated with absence of hypercholesterolemia and lower family income. The results highlight the need to encourage eating healthy foods in order to prevent chronic non-communicable diseases.

This cross-sectional study aimed to estimate the prevalence of hyperuricemia and associated risk factors among Japanese-Brazilians. We obtained data on demographic, health history, food intake, and laboratory variables. Chi-square and prevalence ratios were used as measures of association. 35.3% of the subjects presented hyperuricemia, which was more frequent in smokers, males, age > 55 years, with co-morbidities, individuals on uric acid-increasing medication, serum creatinine > 1.4 mg/dL, high alcohol consumption, and low consumption of milk and dairy products. In the multivariate analysis, the associations remained significant with gender, overweight, central obesity, hypertriglyceridemia, and use of specific drugs. Among males, low intake of saturated fat was associated with hyperuricemia. Individuals with hypertension showed a negative association with dairy product consumption. The high hyperuricemia prevalence suggests that changes in nutritional profile and control of associated co-morbidities could help minimize occurrence of this condition.

The purpose of this study is to determine the correlation of socioeconomic, dietary, and anthropometric-nutritional variables of parents and their children to overweight (including obesity) in schoolchildren in Santa Catarina State, Brazil. This is a transversal study conducted on 4,964, 6 to 10-year-old schoolchildren registered in 345 Santa Catarina elementary schools. The following data were acquired: the children's current weight and height, birth weight and length, duration of breastfeeding, age at which water, herbal tea and other foods were introduced to their diet; parental income, education level, age, weight and height were also obtained. The prevalence of overweight and obese children were estimated by point and by interval with a 95% confidence; prevalence rates were obtained based on the Poisson model. An hierarchical approach was used, in which variables were adjusted within blocks and included in the model when they presented p < 0.05 at the outcome (overweight including obesity). The results indicate that 47.8% of the subjects were male. The prevalence of overweight and obese students was 15.4% (C195%: 14.4%-16.5%) and 6.1% (C195%: 5.4%-6.7%) respectively and were statistically similar among sexes and age ranges. BMI values were higher in males and among older children (p < 0.05). After adjustment within and among blocks, the variables per capita household income and parents' BMI values remained associated with overweight (including obesity). Overweight (including obesity) in schoolchildren is associated with a higher per capita household income and parental overweight and obesity.

We describe the use of factor analysis for assessing food habits in Japanese-Brazilians. Dietary data from 1,283 participants of a cross-sectional study were used. Besides statistical criteria, we also used the conceptual meaning of identified profiles to obtain scores for dietary patterns (Japanese or Western profile). Paired Student t test, linear regression and Poisson models were used to verify the existence of relationship between these scores and generation, body mass index (BMI), waist circumference and presence of metabolic syndrome, respectively. First generation subjects had higher mean Japanese profile scores and lower Western profile scores than those of second generation. The Western dietary pattern was associated with BMI (p = 0.001), waist circumference (p = 0.023) and metabolic syndrome (p < 0.05). We concluded that these scores were able to discriminate subjects who maintained their traditional Japanese lifestyle or otherwise, and that the incorporation of a Western lifestyle is associated to high values of BMI, waist circumference and presence of metabolic syndrome.

We investigated the impact of lifestyle goal achievement on cardiovascular risk factors after a 2-year behavioral intervention program applied to 394 adults (113 with diabetes, mean age 60.2 ± 11.4 years, 56% women) and targeting four goals: ≥5% weight loss; ≥150 min/week physical activities; <10% saturated fat intake/day; ≥400 g fruit and vegetable intake/day. Baseline characteristics and changes in variables after intervention among the four categories of number of goals achieved (none, 1, 2, and ≥3) were compared by independent ANOVA or the Kruskal-Wallis test. Individuals without diabetes achieving a higher number of goals were more likely to be older (3 or 4 goals: 61.8 ± 12.6 years vs none: 53.3 ± 10.3 years, P < 0.05) and to have a lower mean BMI (3 or 4 goals: 21.7 ± 2.6 kg/m² vs none: 29.0 ± 4.8 kg/m², P < 0.05), diastolic blood pressure (3 or 4 goals: 77.3 ± 2.1 mmHg vs none: 85.4 ± 9.6 mmHg, P < 0.05), triglyceride (3 or 4 goals: 116.1 ± 95.1 mg/dL vs none: 144.8 ± 65.5 mg/dL, P < 0.05) and insulin levels (3 or 4 goals: 3.6 ± 2.4 μU/L vs none: 5.7 ± 4.0 μU/L, P < 0.05) than those achieving fewer goals. The absolute changes in cardiovascular risk factors tended to be more pronounced with increasing number of goals achieved in individuals without diabetes. The intervention had a beneficial impact on the cardiometabolic profile of individuals with normal or altered glucose metabolism. The number of goals achieved in this lifestyle intervention was associated with the magnitude of improvement of cardiovascular risk factors in individuals without diabetes. Participants with a better cardiometabolic profile seemed to be more likely to have a healthy lifestyle.

Objective: To describe the results of a nutritional intervention programme among Japanese-Brazilians according to gender., Design: A non-controlled experimental study., Setting: The research included three points of clinical, nutritional and physical activity evaluation: at baseline (in 2005), after the first year and at the end of the second year (in 2007). The paired Student t test and multiple linear regression analysis were used to evaluate changes in the subjects' profile (clinical, nutritional and physical activity variables)., Subjects: Japanese-Brazilians (n 575) of both genders, aged over 30 years., Results: We verified statistically significant reductions in body weight (0.9 kg), waist circumference (2.9 cm), blood pressure, fasting blood glucose (>3 mg/dl) and total cholesterol (>20 mg/dl) and its fractions, in both genders. We also found reductions in intake of energy (among men), protein (among women) and fat (both genders) and increases in intake of total fibre (among women) and carbohydrate (among men)., Conclusions: The intervention programme indicated meaningful benefits for the intervention subjects, with changes in their habits that led to a 'healthier' lifestyle positively impacting their nutritional and metabolic profile.

Objective: To assess fruit and vegetable intake by adults and identify sociodemographic and life style variables associated with this intake., Methods: A population-based cross-sectional study was performed in the urban area of the city of Ribeirão Preto, Southeastern Brazil, in 2006. Sample was selected using three-stage cluster sampling, with census tracts as primary units. Sample was comprised of 930 participants aged 30 years and more and the design effect was considered in data analysis. Fruit and vegetable intake was based on a semi-quantitative food frequency questionnaire, using mean scores of frequency of fruit and vegetable intake, daily intake and minimum intake of such foods as indicators. The independent variables analyzed were as follows: age group, marital status, level of education, per capita household income, nutritional status, smoking and physical activity. Mean scores of frequency of intake were estimated by point and 95% confidence intervals. Prevalence ratios were also estimated by point and 95% confidence intervals to analyze association, using Poisson regression. Linear trend tests were applied, adopting a 5% confidence level., Results: Only 24% of men and 38% of women met the minimum recommendation for fruit and vegetable intake; there was a positive association with age and per capita income. Women with a higher level of education and men who lived with a female partner consumed more fruits and vegetables than others. Physical activity, smoking and nutritional status were not associated with the minimum recommended fruit and vegetable intake., Conclusions: Socioeconomic factors have an important influence on fruit and vegetable intake and, as these are subject to intervention, they can contribute to the adoption of healthy eating habits.

Aim: To identify predictive factors associated with non-deterioration of glucose metabolism following a 2-year behavioral intervention in Japanese-Brazilians., Methods: 295 adults (59.7% women) without diabetes completed 2-year intervention program. Characteristics of those who maintained/improved glucose tolerance status (non-progressors) were compared with those who worsened (progressors) after the intervention. In logistic regression analysis, the condition of non-progressor was used as dependent variable., Results: Baseline characteristics of non-progressors (71.7%) and progressors were similar, except for the former being younger and having higher frequency of disturbed glucose tolerance and lower C-reactive protein (CRP). In logistic regression, non-deterioration of glucose metabolism was associated with disturbed glucose tolerance - impaired fasting glucose or impaired glucose tolerance - (p < 0.001) and CRP levels

The aim of this study was to identify baseline factors associated with achieving goals after a 12-month lifestyle intervention program in a Japanese-Brazilian population, using adjusted logistic regression models. In 2005, 321 participants were overweight. The odds [OR (IC95%)] of reaching the goals after 12 months of intervention were directly related to female gender [2.35 (1.34, 4.13)] and older age [1.03 (1.00, 1.06)] and inversely related to baseline morbidity [0.33 (0.14, 0.77)]. Of the 261 sedentary individuals, achieving the goal for physical activity was inversely related to working [0.44 (0.17, 0.95)]. No baseline predictors were found for reaching the goal of fruit and vegetable consumption or saturated fat intake after 12 months. At baseline, women, older individuals, and individuals without diseases or not working showed increased odds of achieving the goals after 12 months of the lifestyle intervention.

To identify diabetes mellitus prevalence and associated factors, a cross-sectional epidemiological study was developed including participants aged 30 years and older living in Ribeirão Preto, São Paulo State, Brazil. Using three-stage cluster sampling, probability weights were applied, resulting in a weighted sample of 2,197 participants. Diabetes mellitus diagnosis was based on previous medical history or World Health Organization (WHO) cut-offs after oral glucose tolerance test. To investigate associated factors, crude and adjusted prevalence ratios were estimated by points and confidence intervals, using Poisson regression. Diabetes mellitus prevalence was 15.02%. After adjusting for potential confounding, factors associated with diabetes mellitus in the final model were: age; family history of diabetes mellitus; waist hip ratio; waist height ratio; number of medicines taken; and use of outpatient services. The results showed high diabetes mellitus prevalence and identified associated factors amenable to intervention.

Aims/hypothesis: We investigated whether children who are heavier at birth have an increased risk of type 1 diabetes., Methods: Relevant studies published before February 2009 were identified from literature searches using MEDLINE, Web of Science and EMBASE. Authors of all studies containing relevant data were contacted and asked to provide individual patient data or conduct pre-specified analyses. Risk estimates of type 1 diabetes by category of birthweight were calculated for each study, before and after adjustment for potential confounders.Meta-analysis techniques were then used to derive combined ORs and investigate heterogeneity between studies., Results: Data were available for 29 predominantly European studies (five cohort, 24 case-control studies), including 12,807 cases of type 1 diabetes. Overall, studies consistently demonstrated that children with birthweight from 3.5 to 4 kg had an increased risk of diabetes of 6% (OR 1.06 [95% CI 1.01-1.11]; p=0.02) and children with birthweight over 4 kg had an increased risk of 10% (OR 1.10 [95% CI 1.04-1.19]; p=0.003), compared with children weighing 3.0 to 3.5 kg at birth. This corresponded to a linear increase in diabetes risk of 3% per 500 g increase in birthweight (OR 1.03 [95% CI 1.00-1.06]; p=0.03). Adjustments for potential confounders such as gestational age, maternal age, birth order, Caesarean section, breastfeeding and maternal diabetes had little effect on these findings., Conclusions/interpretation: Children who are heavier at birth have a significant and consistent, but relatively small increase in risk of type 1 diabetes.

Objective: The aim if the study was to investigate whether children born to older mothers have an increased risk of type 1 diabetes by performing a pooled analysis of previous studies using individual patient data to adjust for recognized confounders., Research Design and Methods: Relevant studies published before June 2009 were identified from MEDLINE, Web of Science, and EMBASE. Authors of studies were contacted and asked to provide individual patient data or conduct prespecified analyses. Risk estimates of type 1 diabetes by maternal age were calculated for each study, before and after adjustment for potential confounders. Meta-analysis techniques were used to derive combined odds ratios and to investigate heterogeneity among studies., Results: Data were available for 5 cohort and 25 case-control studies, including 14,724 cases of type 1 diabetes. Overall, there was, on average, a 5% (95% CI 2-9) increase in childhood type 1 diabetes odds per 5-year increase in maternal age (P = 0.006), but there was heterogeneity among studies (heterogeneity I(2) = 70%). In studies with a low risk of bias, there was a more marked increase in diabetes odds of 10% per 5-year increase in maternal age. Adjustments for potential confounders little altered these estimates., Conclusions: There was evidence of a weak but significant linear increase in the risk of childhood type 1 diabetes across the range of maternal ages, but the magnitude of association varied between studies. A very small percentage of the increase in the incidence of childhood type 1 diabetes in recent years could be explained by increases in maternal age.

Stages of change assess individual motivation for lifestyle changes, contributing to the development of more effective intervention strategies. The objective of the present study was to identify factors associated with stages of change for lower intake of red meat and higher intake of vegetables in a cross-sectional analysis of 578 Japanese-Brazilians aged 30-90 years. In adjusted logistic regression models, the odds ratios for women (OR = 1.89; 95%CI: 1.154; 3.103) and physically active individuals (OR = 1.00; 95%CI: 1.000; 1.001) were positively associated with stage of 'action' for the higher intake of vegetables. Inverse associations were observed between central obesity (OR = 0.5; 95%CI: 0.351; 0.887) and highest tertile of red meat intake (OR = 0.50; 95%CI: 0.302; 0.817), as well as a positive association between age (OR = 1.04; 95%CI: 1.020; 1.070) and the stage of 'action' to the lower intake of meat were verified. Motivation for Japanese-Brazilians to change their food intake was linked to lifestyle. Stage of change is an important factor in mediating food intake behavior change.

Background: Brazil has more than 200 indigenous peoples with 170 different languages that result in different epidemiological and demographic situations. The objective of this study was to describe the nutritional and metabolic profile of the adult Karib indigenous peoples, inhabitants of the Upper Xingu region, as well as to evaluate their possible effects on their cardiovascular health., Methods: In 2002, the Karib population comprised 1091 individuals, 390 of whom (35.7%) were 20 years of age or older. This study was based on results from 251 adult individuals (64.4%). chi(2) statistics were used to evaluate the possible relationship between chronic diseases and tribe, gender and age. Analysis of variance was used to compare the average values of the biomedical variables of the individuals according to tribe and gender., Results: The prevalence of the main risk factors detected was: 39.3% overweight and 6.8% obese, mainly among men (60.4%), 41.8% for central obesity mainly among women (66.7%), 68% for dyslipidaemia and 15.4% for blood pressure alterations mainly among men (24.7%). Overall, percentages were higher than in the non-indigenous Brazilian population. The percentage of individuals presenting simultaneously with at least two cardiovascular risk factors (29%) was also remarkable., Conclusions: These findings emphasize the need to implement preventive health measures to control obesity and other cardiovascular risk factors in indigenous peoples.

We evaluated the impact of a lifestyle intervention on the cardiometabolic risk profile of women participating in the Study on Diabetes and Associated Diseases in the Japanese-Brazilian Population in Bauru. This was a non-controlled experimental study including clinical and laboratory values at baseline and after a 1-year intervention period. 401 Japanese-Brazilian women were examined (age 60.8+/-11.7 years), and 365 classified for metabolic syndrome (prevalence = 50.6%). Subjects with metabolic syndrome were older than those without (63.0+/-10.0 vs. 56.7+/-11.6 years, p < 0.01). After intervention, improvements in variables were found, except for C-reactive protein. Body mass index and waist circumference decreased, but adiposity reduction was more pronounced in the abdominal region (87.0+/-9.7 to 84.5+/-11.2cm, p < 0.001). Intervention-induced differences in total cholesterol, LDL, and post-challenge glucose were significant; women who lost more than 5% body weight showed a better profile than those who did not. The lifestyle intervention in Japanese-Brazilian women at high cardiometabolic risk improved anthropometric and laboratory parameters, but it is not known whether such benefits will persist and result in long-term reduction in cardiovascular events.

Background: The Western diet plays a role for the epidemics of obesity and related diseases. This study examined a possible association between peripheral arterial disease (PAD) and the dietary components of Japanese immigrants living in Brazil., Methods and Results: In this cross-sectional study, 1,267 subjects (aged > or =30 years) with complete dietary, clinical and laboratory data were studied according to a standardized protocol. Ankle-to-brachial index was used to identify subjects with PAD. The overall prevalence of PAD was 14.6%. Subjects with PAD were older, had lower education and higher mean values of blood pressure, triglycerides, and fasting and 2-h plasma glucose levels compared with those without the disease. Among the subjects with PAD, the consumption of fiber from whole grains (3.0 vs 3.4 g, p=0.001) and linoleic acids (11.0 vs 11.7 g, p=0.017) were lower and intake of total (72.8 vs 69.1 g, p=0.016) and saturated fatty acids (17.4 vs 16.3 g, p=0.012) were higher than those without PAD. Results of multiple logistic regression analysis showed a significant association between PAD with high total fat intake, low intake of fiber from fruit and oleic acid, independently of other variables., Conclusions: Despite limitations in examining the cause - effect relationship, the data support the notion that diet could be important in reducing the occurrence of PAD.

The Japanese Brazilian population has one of the highest prevalences of diabetes worldwide. Despite being non-obese according to standard definitions, their body fat distribution is typically central. We investigated whether a subset of these subjects had autoantibodies that would suggest a slowly progressive form of type 1 diabetes. A total of 721 Japanese Brazilians (386 men) in the 30- to 60-year age group underwent clinical examination and laboratory procedures, including a 75-g oral glucose tolerance test and determinations of serum autoantibodies. Antibodies to glutamic acid decarboxylase (GADab) were determined by radioimmunoassay and to thyroglobulin (TGab) and thyroperoxidase (TPOab) by flow-cytometry assays. Mean body mass index was 25.2 +/- 3.8 kg/m2, but waist circumference was elevated according to the Asian standards. Diabetes, impaired glucose tolerance, and impaired fasting glycemia were found in 31%, 22%, and 22%, respectively, and 53% of the subjects had metabolic syndrome. Glutamic acid decarboxylase (GADab) was positive in 4.72%, TGab in 9.6%, and TPOab in 10% of the whole sample. When participants were stratified according to the presence of thyroid antibodies, similar frequencies of GADab were found in positive and negative groups. The prevalence rates of glucose metabolism disturbances did not differ between GADab positive and negative groups. Our data did not support the view that autoimmune injury could contribute to the high prevalence of diabetes seen in Japanese Brazilians, and the presence of co-morbidities included in the spectrum of metabolic syndrome favors the classification as type 2 diabetes.

The aim of this study was to verify the association between nutritional variables and mortality in a Japanese-Brazilian cohort. In 1993, 647 subjects were interviewed with food frequency questionnaires and scheduled for physical procedures (weight, height, blood pressure) and biochemical tests (oral glucose tolerance test). Student's t test was used to compare the mean values of target variables between living and deceased subjects. Mortality rate and hazard ratios were obtained (crude and adjusted) according to the nutritional variables. Overall mortality rates were 21.4 and 11.7/1,000 person-years for males and females, respectively. Smoking, diabetes, sedentary lifestyle, hypertension, higher mean age, high blood pressure, high blood glucose, and higher percent weight gain and rate of weight gain were observed in the history of deceased subjects. After adjusting for control variables, an increase was observed in mortality among individuals with lower carbohydrate and cholesterol intake. The results suggest that mortality risk factors like age, chronic diseases, sedentary lifestyle, smoking, and inadequate diet must also be acting in the Japanese-Brazilian population.

The objective of this study was to describe the anthropometric and metabolic profile of Aruák Indians (Mehináku, Waurá, and Yawalapití) in the Upper Xingu, Central Brazil. In July 2000 and October 2002, 201 subjects of both genders and aged >or= 20 years were submitted to physical (anthropometric and blood pressure measures) and laboratory (fasting blood glucose, serum lipids, and uric acid) examination. As compared to females, males had lower mean skinfold thickness measurements and serum HDL cholesterol, and higher body mass index, arm circumference, systolic and diastolic blood pressure, serum triglycerides, VLDL cholesterol, and uric acid. The prevalence rates for overweight (51.8%), obesity (15%), dyslipidemia (77.1%), and hypertension (37.7%) were higher among men than women, but prevalence of abdominal obesity (52.1%) was higher among women than men, independently of age and origin. These results corroborate the need to implement measures to control and prevent obesity and other cardiovascular risk factors among these indigenous peoples.

This cross-sectional study focused on the relationship between periodontal disease and metabolic syndrome. Data were analyzed from 1,315 Japanese-Brazilians ranging from 30 to 92 years of age, submitted to physical, laboratory, and dental exams. Means and percentages were used in the data description and logistic regression pattern in the analysis of associations among variables. 484 (36.8%) of the 1,315 were edentulous, 215 (16.4%) enjoyed periodontal health, 513 (39%) had gingivitis, 85 (6.5%), showed initial or moderate periodontitis, and 18 (1.4%) suffered from chronic periodontitis. Prevalence of metabolic syndrome was 54.3%, higher among individuals with periodontitis than in the healthy (51.5% vs. 48.8%), but this association was not statistically significant. Individuals with metabolic syndrome showed a worse metabolic and anthropometric profile.

The objective of this study was to evaluate the impact of different body mass index (BMI) ranges associated with the risk of diabetes and hypertension in Japanese-Brazilians. This cross-sectional study was based on data from 1,330 Japanese-Brazilians > 30 years of age who participated in a population-based survey on the prevalence of diabetes mellitus and associated diseases. Glucose tolerance status was classified according to WHO criteria and blood pressure levels according to the VI-JNC. Odds ratios for diabetes and hypertension were calculated for different BMI ranges; for different BMIs, sensitivity and specificity for percentiles 25, 50, 75, 90 and 95 were obtained. Increased odds ratios for diabetes mellitus and hypertension were observed with BMI values > 25 kg/m(2). The 50th percentile corresponded to the highest sensitivity and specificity for the identification of risk for both diseases. Our results suggest that BMI values proposed by WHO should also be useful for this group of Japanese descendants in the assessment of risk for DM and hypertension.

Cross-sectional surveys were performed in 1993 and 2000 on Japanese-Brazilians (n = 328) of both sexes, aged 40 to 79 years in 1993, living in Bauru, São Paulo State. Both surveys examined food intake using food frequency questionnaires. Dietary intake in both surveys was compared to Wilcoxon tests according to gender (p < 0.05). Calories from dietary fat increased by 16% in both genders (mean values in 2000: 31.5% for women and 30.8% for men). When the surveys were compared, the main dietary changes were: (a) a 40% increase in oleic and linoleic acids and calories from fat and (b) a 20% reduction in dietary cholesterol in both sexes. Among women, an increase in total calorie intake with reduced consumption of vegetables and calories from sweets were observed. Despite increased intake of total dietary fat, there was a decrease in cholesterol intake and an increase in oleic and linoleic acids, fruit, and calcium. However, calcium and vegetable consumption is still short of international recommendations.

The current article aimed to verify the degree of agreement in classification of nutritional status according to body mass index (BMI) and corrected body mass index (BMIc). Data were used from a cross-sectional study of Japanese-Brazilians. Statistical analysis provided prevalence rates for chronic diseases, kappa statistic, and Pearson's linear correlation coefficient. Some 5.9% of Japanese-Brazilians were discordant according to the BMI and BMIc classifications. The weighted kappa statistic (0.94; p = 0.000) indicated good agreement between the classifications. Similar prevalence rates for chronic diseases were obtained for individuals with excess weight classified by these two indices. Similar Pearson's linear correlation coefficients were obtained for these indices and waist circumference and body fat measurements. The results suggest that BMI correction for relative sitting height is probably unnecessary for these individuals.

To examine dietary intakes in relation to long-term serum lipoprotein changes in a prospective cohort study with 7 y of follow-up, serum lipids were analyzed by enzymatic methods, while food intake was calculated from validated food frequency questionnaires. First- and second-generation Japanese-Brazilians (n = 316) living in Bauru, São Paulo/Brazil, of both genders, aged 40 to 79 y were assessed at baseline in 1993. Multiple linear regression models were used with changes in serum lipoproteins as the dependent variable and changes in dietary intakes as the independent variables, adjusted for confounding factors. In energy-adjusted analyses, changes in serum total cholesterol were inversely associated with changes in total dietary fiber, fruits/fruit juices and vegetables after adjustment for age and gender. Each increase of 10 g in the consumption of total dietary fiber was associated with a reduction of 12.5 mg/dL in the serum total cholesterol (p<0.05). Our results highlight the importance of increased intakes of total fiber, fruits and vegetables to prevent and control dyslipidemia in Japanese migrants.

We evaluated the relationship of leptin with hypertension adjusted for body mass index (BMI) and/or waist circumference in a population of Japanese-Brazilian women aged > or = 30 years with centrally distributed adiposity. After excluding diabetic subjects, the study subjects--who participated in a population-based study on the prevalence of metabolic syndrome--showed prevalence rates of obesity (BMI > or = 25 kg/m2) and central adiposity (waist > or = 80 cm) of 32.0 and 37.8%, respectively. The hypertensive group (N = 162) was older, had higher BMI (24.9 +/- 4.2 vs 23.3 +/- 3.4 kg/m2, P < 0.001), waist circumference (81.1 +/- 10.1 vs 76.3 +/- 8.2 cm, P < 0.001) and insulin levels (8.0 +/- 6.2 vs 7.1 +/- 4.9 microU/mL, P < 0.05) than the normotensive group (N = 322) and showed an unfavorable metabolic profile (higher 2-h plasma glucose, C-reactive protein and non-HDL cholesterol levels). Leptin did not differ between groups (8.2 +/- 6.8 vs 7.2 +/- 6.6 ng/mL, P = 0.09, for hypertensive vs normotensive, respectively) and its levels correlated significantly with anthropometric variables but not with blood pressure. Logistic regression analysis indicated that age and waist were independently associated with hypertension but not with homeostasis model assessment of insulin resistance or leptin levels. The lack of an independent association of hypertension with metabolic parameters (2-h glucose, C-reactive protein and non-HDL cholesterol) after adjustment for central adiposity suggested that visceral fat deposition may be the common mediator of the disturbances of the metabolic syndrome. Our data indicate that age and waist are major determinants of hypertension in this population of centrally obese (waist > or = 80 cm) Japanese-Brazilian women, but do not support a role for leptin in the elevation of blood pressure.

Objective: The aim of this study was to examine the association of nutrient intakes with metabolic syndrome in a Japanese descendant population at high risk for metabolic abnormalities., Research Design and Methods: In a population-based study of Japanese Brazilians aged > or =30 years, 412 men and 465 women were studied. The diagnosis of metabolic syndrome was based on the National Cholesterol Education Program criteria modified for Asians. Food intake was assessed by a validated food frequency questionnaire., Results: Men and women showed similar mean ages (55.7 +/- 12.7 and 54.4 +/- 11.9 years) and 49% (95% CI 44.8-54.6) and 43% (38.4-47.6) had metabolic syndrome, respectively. As expected, clinical parameters were less favorable in the subset of subjects with metabolic syndrome. Men with metabolic syndrome showed higher cholesterol (233.2 +/- 116.3 vs. 211.7 +/- 5.8 g/day, P < 0.05) and lower carbohydrate (288.5 +/- 45.8 vs. 300.1 +/- 39.8 g/day, P < 0.001) intakes than those without metabolic syndrome, but no difference was observed among the women. After adjusting for sex, age, smoking, education level, generation, physical activity, total energy, and dietary fiber intake, a positive association between metabolic syndrome and total fat intake was detected. Comparing people in the highest quintile of total fat consumption with those in the lowest quintile, odds ratio (OR) of metabolic syndrome was 5.0 ([95% CI 1.58-16.00]; P < 0.005). In contrast, linoleic acid intake was inversely associated with metabolic syndrome (OR 0.50 [95% CI 0.26-0.98]; P < 0.05). Considering food groups, after adjustments only fried food intake was shown to be associated with increased risk of metabolic syndrome., Conclusions: Despite the limitation of such a study design in investigating cause-effect relationships, our findings favor the hypothesis that dietary total fat may increase whereas linoleic acid intake may reduce the risk of metabolic syndrome in Japanese descendants living in Brazil.

Hyperhomocysteinemia is a risk factor for cardiovascular disease. C677T mutation at the MTHFR gene and deficiencies of folic acid and vitamin B-12 may account for elevation of total homocysteine (tHcy). Ninety Brazilian Parkatêjê Indians (90.0% of the population without admixture, aged > or = 20 years) were studied. Hyperhomocysteinemia was observed in 26.7% of the Indians. No case of vitamin B-12 deficiency was detected. Folic acid deficiency was found in 43.3% of the subjects. Rates of mutated allele 677T and TT genotype were 40.7% and 14.0%, respectively. Prevalence of hypertension, dyslipidemia, smoking, WHR > or = 0.9, BMI > or = 25 kg/m2 and chronic alcohol use were 4.4%, 44.4%, 25.6%, 72.2%, 67.8%, and 0.0%, respectively. All creatinine values were normal. Natural logarithmic (ln) tHcy showed no correlation with age, but was positively correlated with systolic (r = 0.22) and diastolic (r = 0.21) blood pressure and triglycerides (r = 0.39) and inversely correlated with folic acid (r = -0.40) adjusted for age and sex. Total homocysteine (tHcy) was higher among TT genotype (P < .001). The multiple linear regression model, containing variables for sex, folic acid, TT genotype, and triglycerides, explained 50.0% of the variation of the ln tHcy. In summary, high rates of cardiovascular risk factors were discovered. C667T mutation and folic acid deficiency can explain, at least in part, the observed hyperhomocysteinemia.

This study describes breastfeeding practices with children born in a university hospital in the city of S o Paulo, Brazil, and identifies factors associated with duration of breastfeeding and exclusive breastfeeding. A cohort of 506 children was identified; of these, it was possible to analyze information on feeding practices for 450 infants at least until the second month of life. Daily information on infant feeding was recorded by mothers in a food frequency questionnaire. Survival analysis techniques (Kaplan-Meier and Cox) were used. Median duration of breastfeeding and exclusive breastfeeding were 205 and 23 days, respectively. The principal factors related to exclusive breastfeeding were mother's age (hr young/old = 1.22; 95% CI = 1.006-1.486) and mother's schooling (hr primary/university = 2.13; 95% CI = 1.381-3.307 and hr secondary/university = 1.78; 95% CI = 1.145-2.792), which could be related to knowledge concerning the benefits of exclusive breastfeeding.

The Parkatêjê Indians, belonging to the Jê group and inhabiting the Mãe Maria Reservation in the southeast of the state of Pará in the Amazon Region of Brazil, have suffered rapid and intensive cultural changes in recent years. This survey was designed to characterize the metabolic profile and the frequency of cardiovascular risk factors in this community. Ninety subjects (90.0% of the adult population without admixture) were investigated. Anthropometric measurements were performed and the following clinical characteristics measured: glycemia, serum insulin and proinsulin (fasting and 2-hr post 75 g of glucose load), beta-cell function (%B) and insulin sensitivity (%S) estimated by HOMA, HbA1c, GAD65 antibody, serum lipids, uric acid, creatinine, leptin, and blood pressure. Information about alcohol use, smoking, and medical history was obtained through individual interviews. The prevalences were: overweight, 67.8%; obesity, 14.4%; central obesity, 72.2%; hypertension, 4.4%; dyslipidemia, 44.4%; hyperuricemia, 5.6%; GAD65 antibody positivity, 4.4%; smoking, 25.6%; chronic alcohol use, 0.0%. One case of impaired glucose tolerance (1.1%) and one case of impaired fasting glycemia (1.1%) were diagnosed during this study and one case of diabetes (1.1%) was diagnosed previously. The diabetic woman was excluded from the analyses involving HbA1c, glycemia, insulin, proinsulin, %B, and %S. All creatinine values were normal. Blood pressure did not correlate with age, anthropometric measurements, insulin, proinsulin, and natural logarithm (ln) transformed %S. After adjustment for age and sex, there were positive correlations between total cholesterol and body mass index (BMI; r = 0.24), triglycerides and BMI (r = 0.44), triglycerides and waist-to-hip ratio (WHR; r = 0.52), In leptin and BMI (r = 0.41), In leptin and WHR (r = 0.29), uric acid and systolic blood pressure (r = 0.34), uric acid and triglycerides (r = 0.22). Systolic (r = 0.04; r = 0.70) and diastolic (r = 0.14; p = 0.18) blood pressure did not correlate with BMI. Ln leptin had a weak positive correlation with 2-hr insulin (r = 0.14) adjusted for age, sex, and BMI. The multiple linear regression model containing the variables sex, BMI, and 2-hr insulin concentrations explained 77.2% of the variation of ln leptin. In conclusion, the high rates of cardiovascular risk factors found among these Indians point to there being a high-risk group to develop diabetes and cardiovascular diseases. To reduce this risk they need to receive preventive interventions.