Follow-up study to explore the relationship between Neutrophil to lymphocyte ratio and impaired fasting glucose—using the group-based trajectory modeling

Abstract

Previous studies have indicated a link between neutrophil to lymphocyte ratio (NLR) and impaired fasting glucose (IFG), but the findings have been disputed. By conducting a real-world follow-up study, we can monitor the development of diseases and confirm the connection between NLR and IFG. A total of 1168 patients without IFG or T2DM were followed up for six years. At baseline, participants' NLR levels, fasting plasma glucose and other clinical characteristics were recorded. During the follow-up period, NLR levels and the prevalence of IFG were recorded. Ultimately, 45 individuals were lost to follow-up, leaving 1,123 participants for analysis. Using Group-Based Trajectory Modeling (GBTM), the sample was divided into three groups. The prevalence of IFG in the three groups was 12.1%, 19.4%, and 20.85%, respectively. Compared with the low-level NLR group, the hazard ratio of IFG in the moderate-level NLR group and high-level NLR group were 1.628 (1.109–2.390) and 1.575 (1.001–2.497), respectively. There was a significant interaction effect of BMI and NLR on the risk of IFG (P < 0.001). In this real-world follow-up study, we observed a positive association between NLR and the risk of IFG, with this relationship being exacerbated by obesity status.