Carbohydrate tolerance, plasma insulin, growth hormone and lipid levels in Indian and Black diabetics

S Afr Med J. 1975 May 10;49(20):810-2.

Abstract

Glucose tolerance tests were carried out on 35 recently discovered Indian and Black maturity-onset diabetic patients. Differences were found between the two ethnic groups although they were of comparable age, body weight, and probable duration of diabetes at the time of investigation. Glucose tolerance was worse among Blacks and was associated with low plasma insulin levels. Blacks also had lower plasma triglyceride and cholesterol values than Indian diabetics. Plasma growth hormone respone was similar in both groups. The possible role of these factors in determining the relative frequency of ischaemic heart disease in the two racial groups is discussed.

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Black People
  • Black or African American*
  • Blood Glucose / analysis*
  • Cholesterol / blood
  • Diabetes Mellitus / blood*
  • Ethnicity*
  • Female
  • Glucose Tolerance Test
  • Growth Hormone / blood*
  • Humans
  • India / ethnology
  • Insulin / blood*
  • Lipids / blood*
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Sex Factors
  • South Africa
  • Triglycerides / blood

Substances

  • Blood Glucose
  • Insulin
  • Lipids
  • Triglycerides
  • Growth Hormone
  • Cholesterol