The impact of demographic characteristics and lifestyle in the distribution of cystatin C values in a healthy greek adult population.
Background. The aim of the present study was to examine sources of variation for serum cystatin C in a healthy Greek population. Methods. Cystatin C together with basic clinical chemistry tests was measured in a total of 490 adults (46 ± 16 yrs, 40% males) who underwent an annual health check. Demographic, anthropometric, and lifestyle characteristics were recorded. Results. Higher values of cystatin C were observed among males (P = .04), participants aged over 65 years (P < .001), current smokers (P = .001) and overweight/obese participants (P = .03). On the contrary, alcohol consumption and physical activity seemed to have no influence on cystatin C levels (P = .61; P = .95, resp.). Conclusions. In interpreting serum cystatin C values in a healthy adult population, age, gender, Body Mass Index, and cigarette smoking need to be considered, and determination of reference ranges among distinct subpopulations seem to be prudent.
Department of Internal Medicine, Polykliniki General Hospital, 10552 Athens, Greece.
Angelos A
AA
Evangelopoulos
Natalia G
NG
Vallianou
Vassiliki P
VP
Bountziouka
Amalia N
AN
Giotopoulou
Maria S
MS
Bonou
John
J
Barbetseas
Peter C
PC
Avgerinos
Demosthenes B
DB
Panagiotakos