Insulin, Androgen, and Risk in African-American Women

To distinguish whether the observed gender differences in plasma insulin and insulin resistance reflect biologic differences, or whether the gender differences in insulinemia are determined by greater adiposity in women. Also, to determine if the hyperinsulinemia per se contributes to excess risk for cardiovascular disease in African American women. Finally, since higher androgenicity is linked with cardiovascular risk in women, to determine if the risk factors associated with hyperinsulinemia are modulated by sex hormones.