Higher prevalence of type 2 diabetes in men than in women is associated with differences in visceral fat mass

Abstract

Context: We have previously found that visceral fat is a stronger predictor for cardiovascular risk factors than body mass index (BMI). Objective: This study sought to investigate the prevalence of diabetes in elderly men and women in relation to objectively assessed visceral fat volume. Design and Setting: The cohort consisted of a population-based sample of 705 men and 688 women, all age 70 y at the time of examination. Main Outcome Measures: Associations between body fat estimates, plasma glucose level, and diabetes prevalence were investigated using multivariable-adjusted statistical models. Results: The prevalence of type 2 diabetes was 14.6% in men and 9.1% in women (P