Association between the metabolic score for insulin resistance and osteoarthritis prevalence: A cross-sectional population-based study

Insulin resistance (IR) is associated with osteoarthritis (OA). The metabolic score for insulin resistance (METS-IR) is a tool for evaluating IR without direct insulin measurement, demonstrating potential across many metabolic disorders. Nonetheless, its association with OA remains ambiguous. The National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey 2011-2018 data set was examined in this cross-sectional analysis. METS-IR was computed using widespread metabolic markers, and OA was determined by self-reported physician diagnosis. The association between METS-IR and OA was assessed using logistic regression models that controlled for comorbidities, lifestyle, and demographics. METS-IR was assessed both continuously and by quartiles. Restricted cubic splines were used to examine dose-response relationships. To verify robustness, sensitivity and subgroup analyses were conducted. OA was diagnosed in 1085 of the 8799 individuals who were surveyed. A higher METS-IR was strongly correlated with elevated chances of OA (OR = 1.02; 95% CI: 1.01-1.03). The prevalence of OA was significantly higher among individuals in the highest METS-IR quartile than in the lowest quartile (OR = 1.73; 95% CI: 1.21-2.45). Restricted cubic spline analysis indicated a linear correlation. Subgroup and sensitivity studies validated the robustness and generalizability of the results. In this cross-sectional study of a US population, higher METS-IR levels were linearly and positively associated with OA prevalence. As a surrogate indicator of IR derived from routine metabolic parameters, METS-IR may serve as a valuable epidemiological tool for identifying individuals at increased risk of OA.