American Board of Surgery Qualifying Exam (ABS QE) Practice Test

What condition is associated with decreased levels of chromium?

1. Hypoglycemia

2. Poor glycemic control

3. Sideroblastic anemia

4. Neuropathies

The correct answer is: Poor glycemic control

Decreased levels of chromium are associated with poor glycemic control, which is particularly important in the context of diabetes management. Chromium plays a crucial role in enhancing the action of insulin, which is vital for maintaining normal blood sugar levels. When chromium levels are low, the effectiveness of insulin can be impaired, leading to increased insulin resistance and difficulties in achieving stable blood glucose levels. In individuals with low chromium, there may be an association with worsening glycemic control, evidenced by fluctuating blood glucose levels and difficulty managing diabetes. This relationship underscores the importance of trace minerals in metabolic processes and their impact on conditions like diabetes. Hypoglycemia, while related to blood sugar levels, typically occurs when there is too much insulin or too little glucose available in the body, rather than being tied directly to chromium levels. Sideroblastic anemia involves challenges in hemoglobin synthesis and iron metabolism, which are not directly connected to chromium levels. Neuropathies can be caused by various factors, including diabetes itself, but are not specifically linked to chromium deficiency as a primary cause. Thus, the connection between low chromium levels and poor glycemic control is crucial for understanding and effectively managing metabolic health, particularly in the context of diabetes.