Association between the triglyceride-glucose index and mortality in the asthma population

Abstract

Objective

To explore the relationship between the triglyceride-glucose (TyG) index and mortality in individuals with asthma, given the inconclusive evidence linking metabolic dysfunction to asthma outcomes.

Research design and methods

We analyzed data from 5985 adults with asthma from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) 2001–2018. We used multivariable weighted Cox regression, smoothing curve fitting, survival curve analysis, and subgroup analysis to assess the correlation between the TyG index and survival rates.

Results

A higher TyG index significantly correlated with increased all-cause mortality in asthmatics. Adjusted hazard ratios (HR) for higher TyG index categories (compared to TyG <8) were: 1.69 (95 % CI: 1.28, 2.24, p < 0.001) for 8 ≤ TyG <9, 2.04 (95 % CI: 1.51, 2.76, p < 0.001) for 9 ≤ TyG <10, and 2.94 (95 % CI: 2.03, 4.28, p < 0.001) for TyG ≥10. Restricted cubic spline analysis revealed a nonlinear relationship between the TyG score and mortality. Kaplan-Meier curves showed higher TyG indexes associated with greater mortality risk.

Conclusions

The TyG index is a significant predictor of mortality in asthma patients, highlighting its potential for risk stratification. Incorporating the TyG index into clinical assessments could improve monitoring and management. Future research should investigate interventions targeting the TyG index to enhance survival and quality of life in asthma patients.