Evaluation of Neutrophil-Lymphocyte Ratio (NLR) and Platelet-Lymphocyte Ratio (PLR) in relation to Metabolic Risk Factors among Primary School Teachers

Introduction & Aim: Non-communicable diseases such as diabetes mellitus, hypertension, and cardiovascular diseases are major contributors to global morbidity and mortality. These conditions are closely associated with metabolic abnormalities including obesity, impaired glucose metabolism, and elevated blood pressure. Chronic low-grade systemic inflammation is recognized as an important factor in the development and progression of metabolic disorders. In recent years, hematological indices derived from routine blood investigations, particularly the neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR) and platelet-to-lymphocyte ratio (PLR), have gained attention as simple and reliable markers of systemic inflammation. These parameters are inexpensive and easily accessible, making them useful in clinical and community settings. The present study aimed to evaluate NLR and PLR among school teachers and examine their association with selected metabolic risk factors. Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional observational study was conducted among school teachers who voluntarily consented to participate. Anthropometric measurements including height, weight, and waist-hip ratio were recorded using standardized procedures. Physiological parameters such as blood pressure and respiratory rate were measured, and mean arterial pressure (MAP) was calculated. Venous blood samples were collected under aseptic conditions for laboratory investigations including complete blood count, HbA1c estimation, bleeding time, and clotting time. NLR and PLR were calculated from neutrophil, lymphocyte, and platelet counts obtained from the complete blood count. Data were analyzed using SPSS software with descriptive statistics and Pearson correlation analysis. Results: A total of 41 school teachers participated in the study with a mean age of 39.61 ± 6.62 years. The mean BMI was 26.70 ± 4.48 kg/m² and the waist-hip ratio was 0.81 ± 0.05. The mean NLR and PLR were 3.41 ± 1.16 and 220.42 ± 64.33 respectively, while the mean HbA1c level was 9.09 ± 1.98%. Correlation analysis showed weak positive associations of NLR and PLR with BMI, waist-hip ratio, MAP, and respiratory rate, though these relationships were not statistically significant. However, bleeding time and clotting time demonstrated a significant negative correlation with mean arterial pressure. Conclusion: NLR and PLR may serve as simple and cost-effective inflammatory markers reflecting metabolic risk. Their inclusion in routine health assessments may help in early identification of individuals at risk for cardiometabolic disorders, particularly in occupational groups such as school teachers.