Korean Journal of Family Medicine

"Serum"

Original Articles

Usefulness of glycated albumin levels in predicting the maternal or neonatal complications of gestational diabetes mellitus during late pregnancy in South Korea: a retrospective study: Jihan Kim, Sami Lee, Jong Sung Kim; Korean J Fam Med 2025;46(6):401-408. Published online November 12, 2024; DOI: https://doi.org/10.4082/kjfm.24.0048

Abstract
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Background
Gestational diabetes can lead to complications in pregnant women and neonates. Maternal glycated albumin levels during late pregnancy may help predict complications in both mothers and neonates.
Methods
This study was conducted in 120 singleton pregnant women diagnosed with gestational diabetes who visited Trinium Woman’s Hostipal between July 1, 2020, and June 30, 2022. In this study, the patients’ medical records were retrospectively analyzed. Gestational diabetes was diagnosed using a two-step testing method, and glycated albumin tests were performed during the third trimester of pregnancy. The optimal cutoff value of glycated albumin for predicting maternal complications during pregnancy and neonatal complications was determined using the receiver operating characteristic curve.
Results
A total of 45 patients developed maternal complications, with cesarean section (39 patients) due to fetal cephalopelvic disproportion being the most common. As for the neonatal complications, eight neonates were macrosomic or overweight, while 15 neonates required neonatal intensive care unit admission. Additionally, 13 patients had concurrent complications affecting both the mother and neonate. The glycated albumin level in patients with complications was 12.87%, which was significantly higher than that in patients without complications (glycated albumin, 11.67%) (P<0.001). The optimal cutoff value of glycated albumin for predicting maternal and neonatal complications was 12.45%. The sensitivity, specificity, and Youden index were 66.7 %, 86.7%, and 0.534, respectively.
Conclusion
The third trimester glycated albumin test in mothers with gestational diabetes provides limited predictive value for maternal and neonatal complications.

Citations

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Towards early detection and prevention: proactive screening strategies in primary care
Su Hwan Cho
Korean Journal of Family Medicine.2025; 46(6): 379. CrossRef

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Assessing Pulmonary Tuberculosis Using Bandim Tuberculosis and Karnofsky Performance Scale Scores with Serum Adenosine Deaminase Levels: Krishna Sarkar, Bineeta Kashyap, Rajat hamb, S. V. Madhu; Korean J Fam Med 2023;44(4):234-239. Published online July 18, 2023; DOI: https://doi.org/10.4082/kjfm.22.0191

Abstract
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Background
Elevated pulmonary serum adenosine deaminase (ADA) levels signify lung tissue damage and severe tuberculosis (TB). Serum ADA assays can be used as an additional criterion for assessing TB treatment response and as a prognostic marker in patients with pulmonary TB. The Bandim TB and Karnofsky Performance Scale (KPS) scores were developed based on available clinical data and investigations to allow physicians to evaluate disease treatment and response. This study examined the use of a clinical scoring system (Bandim TB and KPS scores) in the context of serum ADA activity.
Methods
Forty adults (aged >18 years) diagnosed with pulmonary TB by Ziehl-Neelsen staining for acid-fast bacilli and/or cartridge-based nucleic acid amplification test were recruited. Standardized questionnaires were used to record Bandim TB and KPS scores. Serum ADA levels were estimated using a commercial kit.
Results
The Bandim TB score was positively associated (ρ=0.74, P≤0.001) and the KPS score was negatively associated (ρ=-0.69, P≤0.001) with serum ADA levels.
Conclusion
Subjective and objective clinical scores of pulmonary TB were strongly correlated with serum ADA levels. Knowledge of clinical scores corresponding to serum ADA levels could help physicians understand stage and progression of the disease which may aid in early detection and better management, and reduce disease transmission in a TB-endemic country.

Citations

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A novel hematological score (HS) and its related nomogram model to predict nontuberculous mycobacterial pulmonary disease in patients with suspected multidrug-resistant pulmonary tuberculosis
Qi Yu, Shengling Hu, Fenfang Liu, Fengyun Gong
Annals of Medicine.2024;[Epub] CrossRef
Correlation Between MTB/RIF Gene Xpert Cycle Threshold Values and Clinical Radiological Severity of Pulmonary Tuberculosis
Rachmi Merrina, Budi Yanti, Yunita Arliny
Indonesian Journal of Tropical and Infectious Disease.2024; 12(2): 73. CrossRef

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Brief Communication

Serum Cadmium Level Is Positively Associated with Unruptured Intracranial Aneurysm Incidence: Bich Nae Ri Yoon, Jun Beom Lee, Ga Heon Jin, Won Yong Kim; Korean J Fam Med 2019;40(4):273-277. Published online February 7, 2019; DOI: https://doi.org/10.4082/kjfm.17.0140

Abstract
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Background
Cadmium is a toxic element in cigarette smoke associated with ischemic vascular disease. Its association with cerebral aneurysm is unknown.
Methods
We retrospectively analyzed the medical records of patients with headache who underwent imaging studies between March 2014 and August 2016. An unruptured intracranial aneurysm (UIA) was confirmed by brain magnetic resonance angiography or computed tomography angiography. A control group included age- and sexmatched patients without an UIA. Whole blood and random urine tests were used for detection of cadmium and arsenic levels, respectively. Student t-test was used to compare subject characteristics, mean cadmium and arsenic levels between groups, and differences between groups with small (<4-mm) and large (≥4-mm) UIAs. Multivariate regression analysis was used to identify risk factors for aneurysm incidence.
Results
Of 238 patients, 25 had an UIA. Those with an UIA had more pack-years of smoking (19.5±3.8 vs. 12.5±6.8, P=0.044) and higher mean serum cadmium levels (1.77±0.19 vs. 0.87±0.21 µg/L, P=0.027). Arsenic levels showed no difference between groups. (67.4±23.5 vs. 62.2±18.3 µg/L, P=0.458). There were no significantly different demographic, clinical, or laboratory characteristics between small and large aneurysm groups. According to multivariate analysis, smoking (odds ratio [OR], 1.48; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.06–2.33; P=0.047) and serum cadmium >2.0 mcg/L (OR, 1.39; 95% CI, 1.15–1.84; P=0.043) were associated with aneurysm incidence.
Conclusion
UIA incidence was associated with pack-years of smoking and serum cadmium level, but aneurysm size was not associated with serum cadmium level.

Citations

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Risk factors for saccular unruptured intracranial aneurysms: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Maaike J A van Eldik, Mariam Ali, Stijn Rietkerken, Jan W Schoones, Sanne A E Peters, Hester M den Ruijter, Ynte M Ruigrok
European Stroke Journal.2026;[Epub] CrossRef
Impact of lifetime and current smoking exposure on the rupture status, number, and size of intracranial aneurysms
Ramazan Jabbarli, Marvin Darkwah Oppong, Meltem Gümüs, Mehdi Chihi, Thiemo Florin Dinger, Laurèl Rauschenbach, Yahya Ahmadipour, Philipp Dammann, Yan Li, Nika Guberina, Karsten H. Wrede, Ulrich Sure
Clinical Neurology and Neurosurgery.2025; 254: 108924. CrossRef
Underreporting of Sex-Specific Findings in Risk Factors for Unruptured Intracranial Aneurysms
Maaike J.A. van Eldik, Mariam Ali, Stijn Rietkerken, Sanne A.E. Peters, Hester M. den Ruijter, Ynte M. Ruigrok
Cerebrovascular Diseases.2025; 55(2): 302. CrossRef
Cigarette Smoking and Observed Growth of Unruptured Intracranial Aneurysms: A Systematic Literature Review and Meta-Analysis
Maria José Pachón-Londoño, Maged T. Ghoche, Brandon A. Nguyen, Seyed Farzad Maroufi, Vita Olson, Devi P. Patra, Evelyn L. Turcotte, Zhen Wang, Brooke S. Halpin, Chandan Krishna, Ali Turkmani, Fredric B. Meyer, Bernard R. Bendok
Stroke.2024; 55(10): 2420. CrossRef
Hemodynamic Analysis of Pipeline Embolization Device Stent for Treatment of Giant Intracranial Aneurysm under Unsupervised Learning Algorithm
Haibin Gao, Wei You, Jian Lv, Youxiang Li, Le Sun
Journal of Healthcare Engineering.2022; 2022: 1. CrossRef
Urinary cadmium and stroke - a case-cohort study in Danish never-smokers
Aslak Harbo Poulsen, Clara G. Sears, James Harrington, Chanelle J. Howe, Katherine A. James, Nina Roswall, Kim Overvad, Anne Tjønneland, Gregory A. Wellenius, Jaymie Meliker, Ole Raaschou-Nielsen
Environmental Research.2021; 200: 111394. CrossRef
Blood cadmium concentration and risk of subarachnoid haemorrhage
Martin Söderholm, Yan Borné, Bo Hedblad, Margaretha Persson, Lars Barregard, Gunnar Engström
Environmental Research.2020; 180: 108826. CrossRef
Chemical Composition and Microbial Contaminants of Poha Beer: A Local Nonalcoholic Beverage in the Bolgatanga Municipality, Ghana
Julius T. Dongdem, James Abugri, Clement A. Asakedola, Todd R. Callaway
International Journal of Microbiology.2020; 2020: 1. CrossRef

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Original Articles

Higher Serum Calcium Levels Are Associated with Preclinical Peripheral Arterial Disease among the Apparently Healthy Individuals: Hyung-Jin Kim, Mi-Ri Kim, Jin-Kyung Park, Yong-Jae Lee, Byoungjin Park; Korean J Fam Med 2018;39(5):279-283. Published online July 4, 2018; DOI: https://doi.org/10.4082/kjfm.17.0035

Abstract
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Background
Epidemiological studies suggest that serum calcium levels correlate with cardiovascular events. An ankle-brachial index (ABI) between 0.9 and 1.00 is a surrogate estimation of preclinical peripheral arterial disease (PAD). Prior studies have shown that an ABI of 0.9–1.0 is also associated with endothelial dysfunction. Therefore, we sought to investigate the relationship between serum calcium levels and preclinical PAD in apparently healthy Korean individuals.
Methods
We evaluated the association between serum calcium levels and preclinical PAD in 596 participants (334 males, 262 females) in a health examination program. Preclinical PAD was defined by an ABI of 0.9–1.0. Multiple logistic regression analysis was used to determine whether the serum calcium level was an independent determinant of preclinical PAD.
Results
The overall prevalence of preclinical PAD was 14.3%. The mean age was 44.0±12.5 years in the non-PAD group and 48.3±11.4 years in the preclinical PAD group (P=0.001). After adjusting for age, gender, systolic blood pressure, fasting plasma glucose, high-density lipoprotein cholesterol, triglycerides, C-reactive protein, g-glutamyltransferase, uric acid, hypertension medication, diabetes medication, and hyperlipidemia medication, the odds ratio (95% confidence intervals) for preclinical PAD was 2.28 (1.02–5.11) with a 1-mg/dL increase in the serum calcium.
Conclusion
These findings suggest that increased serum calcium is independently and positively associated with preclinical PAD regardless of the presence of classic cardiovascular risk factors.

Citations

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Mechanisms of environmental risk factors for autoimmune diseases
Siddharth Maruvada, Frederick W. Miller
Autoimmunity Reviews.2026; 25(4): 104012. CrossRef
Association of Klotho and FGF23 with cardiovascular outcomes in diabetic older adults with chronic limb-threatening ischemia: a prospective study
Federico Biscetti, Silvia Giovannini, Roberto Iezzi, Claudia Loreti, Pietro Caliandro, Lorenzo Biscotti, Dario Pitocco, Andrea Flex
GeroScience.2025; 47(3): 4921. CrossRef

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Association between Dyslipidemia and the Prevalence of Colon Polyps Based on a Health Evaluation of Subjects at a Hospital: Yeong-Ju Kim, Kyung-Jin Lee, Si-Young Park, Jee-Hae Han, Kil-Young Kwon, Jung-Hwan Kim; Korean J Fam Med 2014;35(3):143-151. Published online May 22, 2014; DOI: https://doi.org/10.4082/kjfm.2014.35.3.143

Abstract
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Background

Colonic neoplasm is associated with western diet intake and physical inactivity. These life styles are also risk factors for dyslipidemia and metabolic syndrome. The aim of this study was to evaluate the association between dyslipidemia and the prevalence of colon polyps including colon adenoma as a precancerous lesion of colonic neoplasms.

Methods

We selected subjects undergoing a colonoscopy for health screening at the Health Promotion Center of Eulji General Hospital from January 2006 to June 2010. Subjects with histories of cancers, dyslipidemia treatment, and other intestinal diseases like Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis were excluded. The total numbers of subjects included in the study was 605. Chi-square test and t-test and were used for the analysis. Additionally we used multivariate logistic regression to adjust for sex, age, smoking, drinking, and other risk factors.

Results

The prevalence of colon polyps was 48.70% and 28.05% in males and females, respectively. When adjusting for variables that included age, body mass index, hypertension, diabetes mellitus, smoking, drinking, and exercise, dyslipidemia was not significantly associated with the prevalence of colon polyps. However upon analyzing adenomatous colon polyps in men, dyslipidemias due to triglycerides and high density lipoproteins were significant factors (odds ratio [OR], 2.13; confidence interval [CI], 1.14 to 3.98; OR, 2.24; CI, 1.15 to 4.34, respectively).

Conclusion

Dyslipidemia was not a significant factor in the prevalence of colon polyps. However it had a significant association with the prevalence of adenomatous colon polyps in men.

Citations

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The role of BMI, serum lipid profile molecules and their derivative indexes in colorectal polyps
Chunyu Huang, Weipeng Liang, Yuying Sun
Advances in Laboratory Medicine / Avances en Medicina de Laboratorio.2024; 5(3): 276. CrossRef
El papel del IMC, las moléculas del perfil lipídico sérico y sus índices derivados en los pólipos colorrectales
Chunyu Huang, Weipeng Liang, Yuying Sun
Advances in Laboratory Medicine / Avances en Medicina de Laboratorio.2024; 5(3): 283. CrossRef
Sex-influenced association of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease with colorectal adenomatous and hyperplastic polyps
Qin-Fen Chen, Xiao-Dong Zhou, Yang-Jie Sun, Dan-Hong Fang, Qian Zhao, Jun-Hua Huang, Yin Jin, Jian-Sheng Wu
World Journal of Gastroenterology.2017; 23(28): 5206. CrossRef
Impact of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease and smoking on colorectal polyps
Qin-Fen Chen, Xiao-Dong Zhou, Dan-Hong Fang, Yang-Jie Sun, Qian Zhao, Jun-Hua Huang, Yin Jin, Jian-Sheng Wu
Oncotarget.2017; 8(43): 74927. CrossRef
Association Between Exposure to Environmental Tobacco Smoke at the Workplace and Risk for Developing a Colorectal Adenoma: A Cross-Sectional Study
Seung-Hwa Lee, Ji-Yeon Hong, Jung-Un Lee, Dong Ryul Lee
Annals of Coloproctology.2016; 32(2): 51. CrossRef
Higher serum uric acid levels and advanced age are associated with an increased prevalence of colorectal polyps
MINORU TOMIZAWA, FUMINOBU SHINOZAKI, RUMIKO HASEGAWA, YOSHINORI SHIRAI, YASUFUMI MOTOYOSHI, TAKAO SUGIYAMA, SHIGENORI YAMAMOTO, NAOKI ISHIGE
Biomedical Reports.2015; 3(5): 637. CrossRef
Circulating Vitamin D Levels and Risk of Colorectal Cancer in Women
Paulette D. Chandler, Julie E. Buring, JoAnn E. Manson, Edward L. Giovannucci, M.V. Moorthy, Shumin Zhang, I-Min Lee, Jennifer H. Lin
Cancer Prevention Research.2015; 8(8): 675. CrossRef

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Review

Clinical Implication of Plasma Uric Acid Level.: Young Tae Shin, Kyoung Kon Kim, In Cheol Hwang; Korean J Fam Med 2009;30(9):670-680. Published online September 20, 2009; DOI: https://doi.org/10.4082/kjfm.2009.30.9.670

Abstract
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The debate over the clinical meaning of plasma uric acid level is still a very hot issue. As the interest in health grows larger in the general public, the number of having a regular health check-up is increasing rapidly. Most of the health care centers routinely check the plasma uric acid level but it is not simple to interpret and explain the appropriate meaning of that. Over the past decade, there have been several studies on clinical implication of plasma uric acid level but the question still remains. However the clinical signifi cance of the results might be different according to the severity of cardiovascular risk among subjects studied, and the fi ndings for correlation with the established risks have enough proof to be applied to clinical practice. Additionally, the uric acid-lowering agents should not be used in general population even though it has reason to be prescribed in a specifi c high risk patient. Thus, this review seeks to be helpful in clinical practice by examining the preexisting related studies in a different perspective.

Citations

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Uric acid can be a true cause of hypertension, not a simple bystander
Ki Dong Ko
Korean Journal of Family Medicine.2025; 46(5): 373. CrossRef
Comparative analysis of the efficacy of angiotensin II receptor blockers for uric acid level change in asymptomatic hyperuricaemia
Hun‐Sung Kim, Hyunah Kim, Sue Hyun Lee, Ju Han Kim
Journal of Clinical Pharmacy and Therapeutics.2020; 45(6): 1264. CrossRef
A 12-Week, Multicenter, Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Clinical Trial for Evaluation of the Efficacy and Safety of DKB114 on Reduction of Uric Acid in Serum
Yu Hwa Park, Do Hoon Kim, Jung Suk Lee, Hyun Il Jeong, Kye Wan Lee, Tong Ho Kang
Nutrients.2020; 12(12): 3794. CrossRef
A Study of the Effect on Obesity and dyslipidemia in Kidney-hypofunction Animal Model Induced by Unilateral Ureteral Obstruction
Jinyoung Kwak, Junghwan Park, Youngmee Koh, Taekwon Ahn
Journal of Korean Medicine.2018; 39(2): 1. CrossRef

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Original Articles

The Relationship between Serum Ferritin and High Sensitivity C-reactive Protein among Adults in a Health Promotion Center .: Eun Sil Oh, Hyun Sik Shin, Ji Won Lee, Ji Ae Lim, Duk Chul Lee, Hye Ree Lee; J Korean Acad Fam Med 2008;29(12):908-914. Published online December 10, 2008

Abstract
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Background: More attention is given to oxidative hypothesis which causes atherosclerosis to be recognized as inflammatory response. The relationship between serum ferritin which catalyzes lipid peroxidation and high sensitivity C-reactive protein which reflects vascular inflammation was investigated among adults in a health promotion center. Methods: The study group consisted of 297 men and women (men 86, women 211) who visited the health promotion center of a hospital in Seoul to have a health checkup from October 1, 2004 to April 1, 2005. These subjects answered the questionnares and were measured in the following; blood tests, brachial-ankle pulse wave velocity and several anthropometric measurements. Statistical analysis was performed on 111 subjects after exclusion of those subjects who were taking antihypertensive agents or antidiabetic agents, and who had acute inflammatory diseases, acute liver diseases, anemia, and who had a WBC ≥11,000×10³/mm³or a serum ferritin ≥200 ug/L or a ABI (Ankle Brachial Index) <0.9. Results: The average serum ferritin concentration of men against women was 132.57±43.12 ng/ml to 78.23±38.10 ng/ml which means that men have about 1.7 times as high concentration than women (P<0.001). Serum ferritin was significantly correlated with high sensitivity C-reactive protein (r=0.332). Even in multiple stepwise regression analysis, there was a independent relationship between serum ferritin and high sensitivity C-reactive protein (Ղ=0.138, P=0.010). When we analyzed with distinction of sex, this relationship in women was constant (Ղ=0.131, P=0.031), but serum ferritin in men just showed the trend of correlation with BMI (Ղ=9.510, P=0.059). Conclusion: There is a significant relationship between the increase of serum ferritin and high sensitivity C- reactive protein in healthy women; furthermore, studies in men need to be confirmed. (J Korean Acad Fam Med 2008;29:908-914)

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Children and Parental Factors Affecting Cholesterol Levels of First-grade Students in Elementary School in Gwacheon.: Seol Whee Roh, Sun Young Lee, Kyu Nam Kim, Hyeon Keun Kim, Sun Mi Yoo, Jae Heon Kang, Ji Hyun Song, Myeong Ho Jung; J Korean Acad Fam Med 2007;28(10):754-761. Published online October 10, 2007

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Relationship of Serum Ferritin with Cardiovascular Risk Factors.: Ah Reum Han, Kil Young Kwon, Sang Hwan Kim, Ji Ae Lim, Duk Chul Lee, Hye Ree Lee; J Korean Acad Fam Med 2006;27(5):358-363. Published online May 10, 2006

Abstract
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Background
: Sullivan has suggested that higher incidence of coronary heart disease in men and postmenopausal women is due to higher levels of stored iron in these two groups. A few epidemiologic studies in humans have reported the association between iron stores and increased risk of cardiovascular diseases. But there is conflicting evidence regarding the relationship between iron and cardiovascular diseases. The present study evaluated the relationship between ferreting and well established cardiovascular risk factors.

Methods : There were 288 healthy subjects who visited a health promotion center of a general hospital. We collected data by means of self-reported questionnaire and measured height, weight and blood pressure. Serum ferritin, fasting blood glucose, lipid profiles, and C-reactive protein were measured at a fasting state.

Results : Mean serum ferritin values were 150.1±82.2 ng/mL in men and 61.7±38.2 ng/mL in women (P＜0.001). Serum ferritin level in current smoker was higher than in non-smoker (157.6±111.8 ng/mL versus 100.5±64.2 ng/mL, P=0.006). Serum ferritin was significantly and positively correlated with body mass index, systolic blood pressure, diastolic blood pressure, fasting blood glucose, total cholesterol and triglyceride. There was no statistical significance in age, C-reactive protein, high- density lipoprotein cholesterol and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol. In multiple regression analysis, there was association between ferritin and sex (β=-80.333, P＜0.001) and triglycerides (β=0.182, P=0.030).

Conclusion : The serum ferritin level in men is higher than in women in healthy adults. Serum ferritin is positively associated with triglycerides.

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Diabetes mellius and serum ferrtin concentration.: Seung Heon Han, Sa Rah Lee, Jeong Ho Choi, Jun Hyun Yoo; J Korean Acad Fam Med 2001;22(11):1630-1636. Published online November 1, 2001

Abstract
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Background
: A prospective study about the association between serum ferritin concentration and diabetes mellitus showed that higher risk of diabetes was found in men in higher concentration of serum ferritin. The aims of this study is to examine the association between serum ferritin concentration and the risk of diabetes mellitus in healthy Korean in hospital-based samples.

Methods : In a volunteered healthy population(n=14.782), who underwent health examination in Samsung Medical Center, from January to December 1997, serum ferritin and glucose were determined.

Results : After adjusting for age, BMI, serum triglyceride concentration, and multiple logistic regression analysis showed that those in the highest quartile had increased risk of diabetes mellitus (OR: men 2.26(95% CI 2.41-2.95, p=0.0001), women 3.03(95% CI 2.51-3.67, p=0.0001), compared with those in the lowest quartile.

Conclusion : In studied population, elevated serum ferritin concentration was associated with an increased risk of diabetes.

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The relationship between alcohol consumption and serum liver enzymes in men.: Ji Hwan Hwang, Jai Young Kim, Byung Yeon Yu, Dong Young Cho; J Korean Acad Fam Med 2001;22(8):1247-1254. Published online August 1, 2001

Abstract
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Background
: It is well known that heavy alcohol consumption may result in various lesions on multiple organs and tissue, especially liver. The aim of this study was to measure prevalence of raised liver-derived enzymes in healthy men and possible association with alcohol consumption, smoking and body mass index.

Methods : All subjects were 450 men who received Adult Health Examination at Seoul Hospital of Konkuk medical center from May, 1998 to October, 1998. We carried out telephone survey and analyzed 360 men, excluding men with HBs Ag(+), hepatic problems within 6 months, medication drug that could change serum activity of hepatic enzyme or joints, muscles, cardiac problem and non-responder to telephone survey. We examined prevalence of raise liver enzymes and its possible association with alcohol consumption, smoking, and body mass index, applying logistic regression analysis.

Results : In 20.3% of study subjects, we found raised levels of liver-derived enzymes. If the alcohol consumption was higher than 270 g/week, the odds ratio(OR) for raised liver enzymes, adjusted for body mass index and smoking, increased ; serum gamma glutamyltransferase(r GTP) (OR: 9.48), serum aspartate aminotransferase(AST) (OR: 13.09), and serum alanine aminotransferase(ALT) (OR: 7.40). Smoking was not associated with the risk of raised liver enzymes and obesity(body mass index 25 kg/㎡) showed a positive association with two enzymes ; rGTP(OR: 1.92) and ALT(OR: 2.08).

Conclusion : If alcohol consumption was higher than 270 g/week, the risk of raised liver enzymes increased dramatically and rGTP, AST were shown more sensitive than ALT in alcoholic liver disease.

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Relationship between total testosterone and serum lipid in middle aged men.: In Suk Park, Young Ah Choi, Moon Jong Kim, Sang Hyun Lee, Young Gon Kang, Ho Taek Lee, Young Jin Lee, Chul Young Bae; J Korean Acad Fam Med 2001;22(7):1126-1136. Published online July 1, 2001

Abstract
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Background
: The prevalance of coronary heat disease is significantly higher in men than in premenopausal women of the same age. Impact that endogenous androgens have on serum lipid has many arguments and few researches were made in Korea. So this study was made to investigate correlation between total testosterone and serum lipid known as effect on cardiovascular disease.

Methods : This was a cross-sectional study on 560 middle aged men undertaken health screening program in Pundang General Hospital. Korea for June 1999 to June 2000. We surveyed informations concerning exercise, consumption of alcohol and smoking by means of self questionnaire records and total testosterone and serum lipid were measured at fasting state.

Results : Body mass index was positively correlated with total cholesterol and triglycerides(r=2.023;P<0.01, r=0.229;P<0.01) but negatively correlated with HDL-cholesterol (r=-0.284;P<0.001). Total testosterone concentrations were negatively correlated with total cholesterol and triglyceride(r=-0.096; P<0.05, r=-0.145; P<0.01) but positively correlated with HDL-cholesterol(r=0.155; P<0.001). Total testosterone concentrations were independently correlated with HDL-cholesterol after age and body mass index were adjusted(B=0.734; P<0.05). And after statistical adjustment for age, body mass index, exercise, smoking and alcohol, total, testosterone concentrations were significantly correlated with triglyceride(B=-10.467; P<0.05).

Conclusion : The result indicate that total testosterone can be a independent determinant of HDL-cholesterol and we expect that appropriate maintenance of total tetosterone concentrations will have a protective effect for cardiovascular disease.

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The relationship between low serum cholesterol and depression.: Dong Hyun Lim, Hwan Seok Lee, Nan Yeong Kim, Hyung Don Joo, Chang ho Youn, Jung Bum Lee; J Korean Acad Fam Med 2000;21(9):1157-1163. Published online September 1, 2000

Abstract
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Background
: Although elevated serum cholesterol level has been considered as a significant health problem because it is associated with coronary artery disease, the relation with various health problem (esp. depression) from low serum cholesterol is not well known in Korean people. The authors tried to observe the degree of depression in low serum cholesterol group for its better management.

Methods : The study population was selected among adults who visited the National University Hospital Health Screening Center between May and July 1998. They had no history of cancer and liver disease and no significant medical illnesses which may affect blood cholesterol level. Using the Korean standard BDI, we evaluated the degree of depression scale.

Results : The number of subjects with low serum cholesterol was 77 (males 42, females 35) and that of the control group was 82 (males 47, females 34). The low serum cholesterol group had a statistically significantly higher BDI score(12.2±8.2) than the control group(7.6±6.3) (P<0.05). In males the mean BDI score of 11.9±7.4 in the low serum cholesterol group was significantly higher than the mean score of 5.0±3.8 in the control group(P<0.5), In females, there was no significant difference in depression scale between both groups.

Conclusion : Since the male low serum cholestrerol group had a high depression scale, the multi disciplinary approaches which include psychological supports may be required to manage and treat them. And persistent, significant association between low serum total cholesterol level and psychological problems suggests that further long-term study on the association of low choleserol with depression is necessary.

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Serum lipid and antioxidant status in persons with stress.: Jung Bum Lee; J Korean Acad Fam Med 2000;21(4):514-522. Published online April 1, 2000

Abstract
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Background
: The modern people ilive in excessive stress. This stress seems to be related to various diseases. The increase of daily stressful life also seems to relate closely to serum lipids and antioxidants. This study attempted to show how much daily life stress affects serum lipids and antioxidants.

Methods : sixty one healthy people who visited health screening center of a university hospital were enrolled for this study from October to November, 1998. In the survey of daily life stress, the Holmes and Rahe’s Readjustment Rating Scale, which was modified by Hong and Jung were used. The subjects were interviewed about the life stress during the past one year. The levels of retinol, B-carotene, vitamin C, tocopherol, HDL-cholesterelol, LDL-cholesterol, total cholesterol, triglyceride were measured. The subjects were divided into three groups by the stress scores. Kruaskal-Wallis test was used for analysis. Dependent variables were antioxidants in each group.

Results : There was no significant meaning in the comparison between each stress groups and the level of serum lipids, and between each stress group and the level of antioxidants.

Conclusion : The level of antioxidants was not related to stress. More studies are needed for further evaluation of the results.

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Profile of serum lipoprotein in patients with subclinical hypothyroidism.: Wou Weon Lee, Chung Hwan Kim, Yoo Seock Cheong, Sun Mi Yoo, Il Hwan Park, Seouk Gun Park; J Korean Acad Fam Med 2000;21(3):376-381. Published online March 1, 2000

Abstract
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Background
: Overt hyperthyroidism is a well-known cause of secondary hyperlipidemia and atherosclerosis. However, there have been some dissenting report of abnormalities and in serum lipid concentration in patients with subclinical hypothyroidism. We have attempted to analyze serum lipid concentrations to investigate whether they are increased in patients with subclinical hypothyroidism and to see if there is a correlation between serum LDL-C and TSH concentrations.

Methods : Serum lipid profiles(total cholesterol, triglycerides, LDL-C, HDL-C) of patients with subclinical hypothyroidism (M/F=7/119) compared with age, sex and body mass index matched control subject(M/F=14/239) from Jan. 1. 1996. to Dec. 30. 1997.

Results : There were no significant differences of serum total cholesterol, LDL cholesterol, TG, and HDL concentrations in 126 patients with subclinical hypothyroidism and 253 control subjects(178.47±35.76mg/Dl vs. 173.05±35.963mg/Dl ; 113.33±52.89mg/Dl vs.117.64±68.70mg/Dl ; 112.89±33.25mg/dL vs 109.65±29.02mg/Dl ; 48.60±11.34mg/Dl vs 46.51±11.73mg/Dl). There was no correlation between LDL cholesterol and TSH concentrations in subclinical hypothyroidism(r=0.29, p<0.05).

Conclusion : Serum lipid concentration(total cholesterol, LDL cholesterol, and TG, HDL) was not increased in patients with subclinical hypothyroidism. There was no correlation between serum LDL and TSH levels in patients with subclinical hypothyroidism.

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The Effects of Alcohol On the Serum Lipid Level of Healthy Adutss.: Seon Young Kwon, Jung Jin Cho, Hoon Ill Kang; J Korean Acad Fam Med 1999;20(10):1260-1268. Published online October 1, 1999

Abstract
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Background
: It has been reported that hypercholesterolemia is associated with coronary heart disease and that alcohol intake influence on the lipid metabolism. This study was conducted to evaluate the relations between alcohol intake and serum lipid level.

Methods : We reviewed 906 subjects who had visited for routine checkup at family practice of Hanil hospital and then excluded 130 subjects with DM, renal disease, thyroid disease, hepatic disease or drug administration which might have influence on serum lipids. From the remaining 776 subjects, we obtained the amount and the frequency of alcohol drinking during the previous 2 weeks and the duration of alcohol intake, using a formed questionnaire. The alcohol dependence score was recorded by the National Alcoholism Screening Test. The serum lipids such as total cholesterol, triglyceride, and HDL-cholesterol were tested by enzyme method and obesity index was obtained by Broca’s methods. These data were analyzed by SAS/TC program.

Results : The total number of subjects was 776. Of those, 67.7% (n=525) were male and 32.3%(n=25) females. The mean age of subjects was 50.5 years (range 15 to 77 years). The distribution according to the obesity index was as follows; underweight group 7.1%, normal-weight group 38.1%, over-weight group 31.6%, obesity group 23.2%. The number of the drinkers was 382(49.2%) in males and 7(0.9%) in females.
The mean serum lipid level were compared and analyzed among the groups. The results were as follows; the total cholesterol and triglyceride levels were higher in males and the HDL-cholesterol levels was higher in females. The total cholesterol and triglyceride levels increased with age and obesity index, the HDL-cholesterol level decreased with obesity index. In the relationship between alcohol intake and serum lipid levels in males, The geometric mean of triglyceride level was higher among all the variables of alcohol intake, and the HDL-cholesterol level increased with the amount and the frequency of alcohol intake.
The results of multiple regression analysis associated with age, obesity, index, the amount and the frequency of alcohol intake in males were as follows; the triglyceride level was positively associated with the amount of alcohol intake, and the HDL-cholesterol level was positively associated with the frequency of alcohol intake.

Conclusion : The effects of age, sex and the obesity index on the serum lipid level are remarkable, and in males, alcohol intake increases triglyceride and HDL-cholesterol levels. Further study is needed to find out about whether alcohol intake have influences on coronary heart disease according to serum lipid levels.

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The effects of Cigarrete Smoking on Serum Lipid Profile in young-and middle-aged men.: Young Sung Suh; J Korean Acad Fam Med 1998;19(4):383-393. Published online April 1, 1998

Abstract
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Background
: Cigarette smoking is a major risk factor for cardiovascular disease and a correctable risk factor. In middle and old-aged men, cardiovascular disease is in prevalence than at any other age. Most smokes, start smoking in their twenties and continued to do of that in middle and old aged men, especially in young-and middle-aged men. We examined the association between smoking and their level of plasma lipids.

Methods : Subjects were 238 healthy male non-smokers and 238 male smoker of 21-45 years of age, age matched, and were comparatively observed from May 1 to November 30, 1997 in a university hospital, Taegu, Korea. Subjects were interviewed by a research doctor who recorded subject's sociodemographic data, drinking amount, exercise, smoking status and smoking amount. We checked the level of serum total cholesterol, HDL-cholesterol, triglyceride on a fasting state and BMI.

Results : The results showed that smoking had a remarkable influence on HDL cholecterol, triglyceride, atherogenic index(ratio of total cholesterol to HDL cholesterol) between HDL cholesterol of smoking group in 31-35 year age group were obviously lower than nonsmoking that age group. The level of triglyceride in 31-35, 41-45 year age group were obviously higher than same nonsmoking groups. Atherogenic index in 31-35 year age group was obviously higher than nonsmoking that age group. But, no association between cigarette smoking and level of plasma total cholesterol was observed. HDL cholesterol, triglyceride, atherogenic index were significantly different beyond 11 pack-years or 20 cigarettes/day smoking groups than nonsmoking groups.

Conclusion : Based on the these findings, it is recommend that smoking cessation strategies for perceived healthy third decade and fourth decade men build up. I suggest smoking cessation education should start in the early age as soon as possible.