TLDR High afamin levels are linked to metabolic syndrome and may predict its development in women with insulin resistance.
In the 2014 study by Seeber et al., researchers examined the link between afamin serum concentrations and insulin resistance (IR) as well as metabolic syndrome (MetS) in 53 women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) and 49 controls. They found no significant difference in afamin levels between the overall PCOS and control groups. However, PCOS patients with IR had significantly higher afamin levels than those without IR. Additionally, afamin concentrations were significantly higher in subjects with MetS. Triglyceride levels were identified as the only independent predictor of afamin concentrations. The study concluded that high afamin concentrations are associated with MetS and could be an independent predictor for its development in women at risk, particularly those with IR.
951 citations,
December 2013 in “Clinical epidemiology” PCOS is a common hormonal disorder in women that can be managed with lifestyle changes and various medications.
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December 2011 in “Fertility and sterility” Experts agree that PCOS affects women's health in complex ways, but more research is needed to understand and treat it effectively.
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January 2011 in “Nature Reviews Endocrinology” The document concludes that PCOS is a complex disorder caused by both genetic and environmental factors, affecting women's health in various ways, and requires personalized treatment.
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April 2010 in “The Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism” Women with PCOS should be screened for heart disease risk and manage their health to prevent it.
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December 2003 in “Human Reproduction” The 2003 consensus updated PCOS diagnosis criteria and linked PCOS to higher risks of diabetes and heart problems, recommending lifestyle changes to lower these risks.
418 citations,
June 2003 in “Endocrine Reviews” While PCOS might increase the risk of heart disease, there's not strong evidence to prove it causes earlier heart problems.
270 citations,
April 2007 in “The Journal of Clinical Endocrinology and Metabolism” Women with PCOS often have more belly fat and higher insulin levels, but belly fat isn't the only cause of their insulin resistance.