Targeting cardiovascular risk: early identification of insulin resistance.
OBJECTIVE
To review current data regarding the known pathophysiology of insulin resistance and its associated sequelae related to cardiovascular risk, to discuss the current measures for insulin sensitivity and studies associated with measures of insulin resistance, and to summarize the impact of insulin resistance.


METHODS
CINAHL, Health and Wellness Resource Center, and Medline.


RESULTS
Insulin resistance yields a diminished sensitivity of key target cells to the actions of insulin and is present early in the course of insulin resistance syndrome, also known as metabolic syndrome, leading to prediabetes and cardiovascular disease approximately 10 years before the diagnosis of type 2 diabetes.


CONCLUSIONS
Early identification of insulin-resistant individuals would allow extra time for preventive measures and may alter the progression of the development of associated cardiovascular risk. A recommendation for a treatment plan of identified insulin-resistant individuals is provided.
Fortson
Julie
J
Carolina Cardiology Consultants, P.A., Greenville, South Carolina 29604, USA. jfortson@carolinacardio.com
Howe
Linda
L
Harmon
Corinne
C
Sherrill
Windsor Westbrook
WW
D002318:Cardiovascular Diseases / Q000209:etiology / Q000503:physiopathology / Q000517:prevention & control*; D006801:Humans; D007333:Insulin Resistance / Q000502:physiology*; D024821:Metabolic Syndrome; D018570:Risk Assessment; D013997:Time Factors