Insulin Resistance in Chileans of European and Indigenous Descent
Author Information
Author(s): Carlos A. Celis-Morales, Francisco Perez-Bravo, Luis Ibañes, Ruth Sanzana, Edison Hormazabal, Natalia Ulloa, Carlos Calvo, Mark E. S. Bailey, Jason M. R. Gill
Primary Institution: University of Glasgow
Hypothesis
The study aimed to determine whether the effects of environment, adiposity, fitness, and lifestyle variables on insulin resistance differed between individuals of indigenous Mapuche origin compared to those of European origin in Chile.
Conclusion
Urbanisation, adiposity, physical activity, and sedentary behaviour influence insulin resistance to a greater extent in Chilean Mapuches than in Chileans of European descent.
Supporting Evidence
- Insulin resistance was three times higher in Urban compared to Rural Mapuches.
- The effect of urbanisation on insulin resistance was greater in Mapuches than in Europeans.
- Adiposity had a more significant impact on insulin resistance in Mapuches than in Europeans.
Takeaway
This study found that living in a city makes Mapuche people more likely to have insulin resistance compared to Europeans, even if they weigh the same.
Methodology
The study used a cross-sectional design with blood tests and assessments of physical activity, body composition, and lifestyle factors among different ethnic groups.
Potential Biases
Potential recruitment bias due to community concerns and the exclusion of individuals with cardiovascular disease or on diabetes medications.
Limitations
The study is cross-sectional, which limits causal conclusions, and it faced logistical challenges in data collection from remote areas.
Participant Demographics
Participants included 123 Rural Mapuche, 124 Urban Mapuche, 91 Rural European, and 134 Urban European Chilean adults aged 20-60.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p<0.0003
Statistical Significance
p<0.004
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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