Abstract
Objective
This study explores how the Weight-Adjusted Waist Index (WWI) and A Body Shape Index (ABSI) relate to serum neurofilament light chain (sNfL) levels among US adults. We aim to clarify sNfL that serves key roles in neuronal injury in neurological diseases, given its understudied connection to obesity.
Methods
Focusing on people with complete information on the Weight-Adjusted Waist Index (WWI), A Body Shape Index (ABSI), and serum neurofilament light chain (sNfL), we used cross-sectional data from the 2013–2014 National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES). Multiple linear regression analysis let us investigate the separate connections of WWI, ABSI, and sNfL. To assess any nonlinear correlations, we also performed threshold effect analysis and smoothed curve fitting. Moreover, interaction testing and subgroups analysis were done to improve the general validity of our results.
Results
1,995 people were finally enrolled for this study. WWI and ABSI were positively linked with sNfL (WWI: β = 0.05, 95% CI: 0.01–0.09; ABSI: β = 1.65, 95% CI: 3.53–13.72). There was no clear reliance in this association according to subgroup analysis and interaction tests. Furthermore, studies of smoothed curve fitting and threshold effects revealed a positive connection of WWI and ABSI with reference to sNfL.
Conclusion
In the adult American population, while WWI and ABSI are linearly positively correlated with serum neurofilament light protein (sNfL), the effect size is more pronounced for ABSI. This correlation provides fresh evidence connecting obesity to neurological conditions, deepening our comprehension of the extensive health impacts associated with obesity.
Level of Evidence: Level I, experimental studies