Abstract

Background: Recognizing cardiovascular risk in overweight adults is challenging, as they usually have a low Framingham risk score (FRAM). In these subjects, non-traditional biomarkers could improve risk stratification. Aim: To assess carotid intima media thickness (CIMT) and ultrasensitive C-reactive protein (usCRP) among overweight and obese subjects without metabolic syndrome (MetSyn). Subjects and Methods: In 1558 asymptomatic participants (816 women, 45 11 years) we measured body mass index (BMI), waist circumference, blood pressure, lipid profile, blood glucose, FRAM, usCRP and CIMT. For analytical purposes, we divided the subjects in three groups according to BMI and number of ATPIII-MetSyn risk factors (RF): 1) BMI < 25 and < 3RF, 2) BMI. 25 and < 3RF and 3) BMI >= 25 and >= 3RF. Results: Participants of group 2 (BMI >= 25 and < 3RF) had a low FRAM (8%). Compared with participants of group I, they had a higher CIMT (0.61 +/- 0.1 and 0.57 +/- 0.09 mm, respectively, p < 0.01) and usCRP (2.1 +/- 2.1 and 1.5 +/- 1.9 mg/L respectively, p < 0.01). Conclusions: This study shows that although subjects with overweight/obesity without MetSyn have low cardiovascular risk based on FRAM, they have higher CIMT and usCRP than their normal weight counterparts.