High IGFBP2 levels are not only associated with a better metabolic risk profile but also with increased mortality in elderly men

ObjectiveSerum IGF-binding protein 2 (IGFBP2) concentrations are reduced in obese humans and increase after a prolonged period of fasting. We investigated the association between IGFBP2 levels and mortality together with other factors that are related to IGFBP2, including the metabolic syndrome and physical function.DesignA prospective observational study at a clinical research center of 403 independently living elderly men (aged 73–94 years).MethodsMortality was registered during 8.6 years of follow-up. Physical performance score (PPS), grip strength (GS), and bone mineral density (BMD) were measured. The measurements taken a baseline were: IGF1; IGFBP1, -2, and -3; IGF1 bioactivity; triiodothyronine (T3); and reverse T3. Further, BMI, insulin sensitivity, cholesterol, inflammatory markers, and albumin levels were also measured.ResultsDuring the follow-up, 180 men died. Higher PPS, GS, and BMD were independently related to a reduced mortality (hazard ratio (HR)=0.87/point, 95% confidence interval (95% CI)=0.82–0.91, P