Association between the triglyceride–glucose index and subclinical atherosclerosis in asymptomatic adults: a large cross-sectional study of a health check-up population - Report - MDSpire

Association between the triglyceride–glucose index and subclinical atherosclerosis in asymptomatic adults: a large cross-sectional study of a health check-up population

  • By

  • Zhihong Gao

  • Yuqiang Zuo

  • Yuling Yin

  • Xu Yang

  • Lei Xu

  • Min Jia

  • Lan Yang

  • June 10, 2026

  • 0 min

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Clinical Report: Link Between Triglyceride-Glucose Index and Subclinical Atherosclerosis

Overview

This study investigates the association between the triglyceride–glucose (TyG) index and subclinical atherosclerosis (SA) in asymptomatic adults. Higher TyG levels were linked to increased odds of SA.

Background

Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is a leading cause of mortality globally, with atherosclerosis being a primary contributor. Early detection of subclinical atherosclerosis is crucial for effective cardiovascular prevention strategies. The TyG index serves as a surrogate marker for insulin resistance.

Data Highlights

MeasureOdds Ratio (OR)Confidence Interval (CI)
Each 1-unit increase in TyG1.201.10–1.30
Highest tertile vs. lowest tertile1.381.22–1.56

Key Findings

  • Higher TyG levels are associated with increased odds of SA.
  • Each 1-unit increase in TyG correlates with a 20% increase in odds of SA.
  • Participants in the highest TyG tertile had higher odds of SA compared to those in the lowest tertile.
  • A non-linear association was observed, with an inflection point around a TyG value of 8.07.
  • The association between TyG and SA remained consistent in normoglycemic individuals.

Clinical Implications

The findings indicate that the TyG index may be a tool for identifying asymptomatic individuals at risk for subclinical atherosclerosis.

Conclusion

The study establishes an association between the TyG index and subclinical atherosclerosis in asymptomatic adults.

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