The advanced lung cancer inflammation Index as a potential novel biomarker for hypertension

Abstract

Background

Systemic inflammation and nutritional status are recognized as key contributors to hypertension pathogenesis. The Advanced Lung Cancer Inflammation Index (ALI), combining body mass index, serum albumin, and neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio, reflects these processes. However, its association with hypertension in general populations remains unclear.

Methods

Using data from a public database of 43,886 adults, we investigated the relationship between ALI and hypertension prevalence. ALI was calculated as BMI × serum albumin/neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio. Hypertension was defined by blood pressure, self-reported diagnosis, or antihypertensive treatment. Logistic regression models, adjusted for demographic, behavioral, and clinical confounders, assessed associations, with nonlinear and age-stratified analyses.

Results

Elevated ALI was strongly associated with higher odds of hypertension (adjusted OR per 10-unit increase: 1.035; 95% CI, 1.028–1.042). Individuals in the top ALI tertile had a 33.7% increased risk of hypertension compared to those in the lowest tertile (OR: 1.337; 95% CI, 1.261–1.417). Nonlinear modeling revealed stronger associations below age-specific ALI cutoffs (67.45 for ≤60 years; 78.48 for >60 years), with weaker effects above these thresholds, especially among older adults.

Conclusions

ALI is a novel biomarker associated with hypertension risk, offering potential for early screening and personalized management. Longitudinal studies are needed to confirm causality and clarify mechanisms.