Abstract
DHEA-S is the most abundant steroid hormone in human circulation. Although a relationship
of DHEA-S with obesity-related diseases has been reported, the metabolic role of this
hormone remains unclear, particularly in children. In our study, we have investigated
the relationship of DHEA-S levels with anthropometric variables, insulin, HOMA, and
free fatty acids in adolescents. The study sample included 812 healthy 12–16-year-old
children (383 boys and 429 girls). Plasma DHEA-S was determined by RIA, insulin concentrations
by IRMA, and free fatty acids by using a commercial kit. Insulin resistance was estimated
using the HOMA index. No significant differences in plasma DHEA-S levels were found
between sexes. DHEA-S levels in overweight children were significantly higher than
in normal-weight children. DHEA-S levels were significantly correlated with weight
and BMI after adjusting for age. Significant positive correlations between DHEA-S
and free fatty acids levels were found after adjusting for age and BMI, particularly
in boys, but not between DHEA-S levels and insulin or HOMA in either gender. DHEA-S
levels in 12–16-year-old children are correlated with weight and BMI independently
of age. We failed to find any association between DHEA-S and insulin levels, but we
did find a significant correlation between DHEA-S and free fatty acids levels, suggesting
that its association with free fatty acids may be related to the onset of the association
of DHEA-S with insulin resistance.
