The association between triglyceride-glucose index and emotional states in adults with different blood pressure status: a cross-sectional study.

OBJECTIVES

This study aimed to investigate the association between the triglyceride-glucose (TyG) index and emotional states, including depression, anxiety, and stress, in adult men and women, considering their blood pressure (BP) status.

METHODS

This cross-sectional study was conducted within the framework of the Tehran Lipid and Glucose Study, including 5379 adults (53.43% female). Participants were categorized into three groups based on their BP status: normotensive, suspected, and diagnosed hypertension. The TyG index was calculated, and emotional states were assessed using the Depression Anxiety Stress Scale-21 (DASS-21). Linear regression models were used to evaluate the mentioned association.

RESULTS

Our findings showed a significant positive association between the TyG index and emotional states, including depression, anxiety, and stress, only in women with diagnosed hypertension. Specifically, a one-unit increase in the TyG index was associated with an approximately 3-point increase in the scores of depression ( β  = 3.09, P  = 0.007), anxiety ( β  = 3.09, P  = 0.009), and stress ( β  = 3.09, P  = 0.007). No significant associations were observed between the TyG index and emotional states in men or across other BP groups.

CONCLUSION

The study highlights a stronger association between women's emotional well being and their metabolic health compared to men. Additionally, it underscores the critical importance of addressing emotional health in women with high TyG and diagnosed hypertension.