Low Glycated Hemoglobin and Liver Disease in the U.S. Population

OBJECTIVE: To characterize the association of low HbA(1c) values (<4.0%) with liver enzymes and steatosis. RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS: Cross-sectional study of 12,533 participants without diabetes aged <20 years in the Third National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (1988–1994). Logistic regression models were adjusted for demographic, lifestyle, and health status variables. RESULTS: HbA(1c) values ranged from 3.2 to 15.7%, and 84 participants had HbA(1c) <4.0% in the population (mean age 44, 52% female, 15% black or Hispanic). We observed J-shaped associations between HbA(1c) and liver enzymes and hepatic steatosis. In adjusted models, HbA(1c) <4.0% was strongly associated with elevated alanine aminotransferase (OR 3.62 [95% CI 1.09–12.02]) and aspartate aminotransferase (6.80 [2.99–15.43]). CONCLUSIONS: Low HbA(1c) values were associated with liver enzymes and steatosis in the U.S. population. Liver disease may partially explain the association of HbA(1c) with mortality and other long-term outcomes.