Factors Affecting Hemoglobin A1c Level in Men and Women in Their 20s: Based on the Korean National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey 2022 to 2023

Abstract

Background:

Diabetes is a lifestyle-related disease that is prevalent worldwide. Although the incidence rates differ by sex, there is no consensus on the factors influencing hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) levels in young men and women. To prevent diabetes and increase healthy life expectancy, it is important to understand the factors that affect HbA1c levels in men and women in their 20s.

Objectives:

This study focuses on identifying the general characteristics and HbA1c levels of men and women in their 20s and explore the factors associated with HbA1c levels.

Methods:

Using a cross-sectional secondary data analysis based on data from the 2022 and 2023 Korean National Health and Nutrition Examination Surveys, demographic characteristics, health-related behaviors, health status, and anthropometric characteristics of adults in their 20s (N = 998; 461 men, 537 women; mean age: 24.8 years) who had not been diagnosed with diabetes were collected. Multiple linear regression analysis was used to analyze factors affecting HbA1c levels (mean: 5.14%).

Results:

Factors affecting HbA1c in men were higher body mass index (BMI; β = 0.17, p < .001), older age (β = 0.09, p = .038), and current smoking (β = 0.10, p = .024); and in women, higher BMI (β = 0.25, p < .001), living alone (β = 0.09, p = .037), and having a family history of diabetes (β = 0.11, p = .009).

Conclusions:

Factors affecting HbA1c levels differ between men and women. Therefore, healthcare providers should be aware of these factors and provide tailored interventions for diabetes prevention.