Analysis of ghrelin and leptin concentrations in saliva in a selected population of children aged 10-13 years in the Silesia province (Poland)

Background. The measurement of salivary ghrelin and leptin concentrations can be a valuable diagnostic tool for assessing children’s nutrition. Material and methods. The study was conducted in a group of children aged 10-13 years in selected elementary schools in the Silesia Province, Poland. Biological material (saliva) was collected from the study children and anthropometric measurements were taken. Collected saliva was subjected to ELISA analysis. Using the obtained anthropometric data, Body Mass Index was calculated, nutritional status of children was determined based on growth charts. Statistical analyses were performed to evaluate the collected data. Results. A total of 111 children (48 girls and 63 boys) participated in the study. Normal body weight was observed in 55% of boys and 66% of girls; overweight was observed in 21% of girls and 27% of boys and obesity in 12.5% of girls and 14.3% of boys. Ghrelin concentrations in the whole study group correlate significantly with leptin concentrations (Pearson’s r=0.45; p=0.001). Body Mass Index, body weight, waist circumference, as well as hip circumference are statistically associated with ghrelin (p=0.001) and leptin (p=0.001) levels. Conclusions. The factor influencing salivary concentrations of ghrelin and leptin is body weight, whereas gender has no effect on the concentrations of the compounds in question. Body Mass Index values, body weight, height, waist circumference, hip circumference, and waist/hip ratio correlate with salivary concentrations of ghrelin and leptin.