Study of Cholesterol Levels and Types in African Americans With Type 2 Diabetes

Compared to other races, African-Americans with type 2 diabetes have different cholesterol levels, specifically triglycerides and low density lipoprotein. Recent data has shown the not only are cholesterol levels important in determining the risk for cardiovascular disease, but the size of the cholesterol particles and surface proteins on the cholesterol particles are also important. The objective of this study is to determine if African-American males with diabetes have different particle size, surface proteins, and cholesterol genetic links than African-American male without diabetes and Caucasian-American males with and without diabetes. African-American males with type 2 diabetes and not taking lipid-lowering medications are the current target population. After obtaining an informed consent, a complete medical history will be obtained and subjects will be examined, noninvasively, for physical signs of elevated cholesterol levels. Afterwards, blood samples \[one venous puncture, 6 tubes (21 mL total)\] will be obtained. Blood samples will be coded, sent to Berkeley Heart Lab and/or Clinical Laboratory Services, and undergo genetic testing at Mercer University College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences. Confidentiality of the subjects will be explained in the consenting process to the subjects. All subject samples and information will be coded. Each subject will be given a subject number upon consenting and this will be used throughout the study. All pertinent information of the subjects will be listed under the designated number, but will not be associated with that patient.