Adiposity, Disease Duration, and Atherogenic Indices as Predictors of Cardiometabolic Risk in Adults with Type 2 Diabetes

Abstract

Background: Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is a major driver of cardiovascular disease, with rising burden in Nigeria. Limitations of conventional adiposity measures and inconsistent performance of atherogenic indices necessitate evaluation of more reliable predictors of cardiometabolic risk.
Objective: To evaluate the inter-play between visceral adiposity indices, atherogenic indices, and selected clinical factors in assessing cardiometabolic risk among Nigerian adults with T2DM.
Methods: A cross-sectional analytical study was conducted using routinely collected data from adults attending monthly screenings of the Diabetes Association of Nigeria. Sociodemographic, anthropometric, and biochemical data were obtained. Adiposity (BMI, VAI, LAPi) and atherogenic indices (AIP, Castelli’s indices, atherogenic coefficient) were computed. Descriptive statistics and multiple linear regression analyses were performed (p < 0.05).
Results: Significant sex differences were observed, with obesity being more prevalent in females and overweight in males. Regression models showed modest explanatory power (R² = 0.07–0.15). Age and sex were consistently and significantly associated with atherogenic indices, while BMI was significantly associated with AIP only. Duration of diabetes and occupation were not significant predictors.
Conclusion: Cardiometabolic risk is modestly explained by demographic factors, with limited contribution from clinical variables. Improved, context-specific risk markers are needed.