Gender differences in C-reactive protein, interleukin-1 receptor antagonist and adiponectin levels in the metabolic syndrome: a population-based study

Aims We explored gender differences in the association of high‐sensitivity C‐reactive protein (hs‐CRP), interleukin‐1 receptor antagonist (IL‐1Ra) and adiponectin with the metabolic syndrome (MetS) defined by the National Cholesterol Education Program (NCEP) and the International Diabetes Federation (IDF) criteria. Methods A population‐based study of 923 middle‐aged subjects in Pieksämäki, East Finland. Results The prevalence of the MetS according to the IDF and NCEP definitions was 38% and 34% in men (N = 405) and 34% and 27% in women (N = 497), respectively. hs‐CRP and IL‐1Ra levels were higher in subjects with the MetS compared with those without the MetS in both sexes (P