Assessment of the Prevalence of Insulin Resistance in Tarhuna City and Its Relationship with Selected Biochemical Indicators such as Lipids, Fasting Blood Glucose, and Glycated Hemoglobin (HbA1c)

Abstract

Insulin resistance (IR) is a key metabolic abnormality that precedes the development of type 2 diabetes mellitus and is strongly associated with obesity, dyslipidemia, and cardiovascular disease. This study aimed to determine the prevalence of insulin resistance among adults in Tarhuna City, Libya, and to examine its association with selected biochemical indicators, including lipid profile, fasting blood glucose (FBS), and glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c). A cross-sectional descriptive study was conducted on 58 adults aged ≥18 years. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire covering demographic characteristics, lifestyle factors, and anthropometric measurements. Fasting blood samples were obtained to measure FBS, HbA1c, lipid profile, and fasting insulin. Insulin resistance was assessed using the Homeostatic Model Assessment (HOMA-IR), with a cut-off value >2.5. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS version 25, and a p-value <0.05 was considered statistically significant. The findings revealed a high prevalence of insulin resistance (69%) among participants. IR was significantly associated with increased body mass index (BMI), elevated FBS, higher HbA1c levels, and dyslipidemia, particularly increased total cholesterol, LDL-C, and triglycerides. Physical inactivity and obesity were also strongly associated with insulin resistance, whereas HDL-C showed no significant association. In conclusion, insulin resistance is highly prevalent among adults in Tarhuna City and is strongly linked to obesity, impaired glycemic control, and abnormal lipid metabolism. These findings highlight the urgent need for early screening and lifestyle-based interventions to reduce the risk of diabetes and cardiovascular diseases in the Libyan population.