Abstract
INTRODUCTION: Excess fat accumulation contributes to the development of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). Lipid accumulation product (LAP) is an index computed from waist circumference and triglycerides, which represents increased lipotoxicity. We aim to study the relationship of LAP index and T2DM and its utility as a predictor for T2DM development. METHODOLOGY: A literature search in PubMed and Cochrane database was performed to retrieve and review studies reporting the association between LAP and T2DM. RESULTS: Two cross-sectional studies from Japan and the United States, and one cohort study from Iran were obtained. A high LAP was associated with a higher risk of T2DM [odds ratio (OR) 19.1, 95% confidence interval (CI) (6.6-55.5) for women; and OR 7.4, 95% CI (5.1-10.8) for men]. CONCLUSION: LAP was strongly associated with T2DM. Its utility in predicting the development of T2DM needs to be confirmed.