Abnormal Glucose Metabolism in Hispanic Parents of Children with Acanthosis Nigricans

Objective. Assess the prevalence of abnormal glucose metabolism among Hispanic parents of children with acanthosis nigricans (AN). Methods. Hispanic families (n = 258) were evaluated for metabolic and anthropometric parameters including fasting glucose levels and AN status. Results. Mothers with AN+ children had IFG (17.3%) and 4% had glucose levels ≥126 mg/dL (P = 0.028) compared to 7.1% and 1.8% of mothers with AN- children, respectively. Mothers of AN+ children also had greater odds of having impaired fasting glucose levels (OR: 3.917, 95% CI: 1.475-10.404; P < 0.004) but this was not the case for fathers (OR: 1.125, 95% CI: 0.489-2.586; P = 0.781). Mothers of AN+ children were also more likely to be AN+ (OR: 5.76, 95% CI: 2.98-11.13, P < 0.001). Screening discovered glucose levels >126 mg/dL in 9% of fathers with AN+ children. Conclusions. Hispanic mothers of AN+ children are at higher risk of carbohydrate metabolism abnormalities. AN in children can be a marker for prevention and delay programs aimed at identifying adults at risk for diabetes.