People who are overweight or obese tend to have less of a specific fat-related chemical (15-HETE) in their blood than lean people, and the more weight they have, the less of this chemical they have.
Scientific Claim
In humans, plasma levels of 15-HETE are significantly lower in individuals with a body mass index (BMI) greater than 25 kg/m² compared to those with BMI below 25 kg/m², and show a significant negative correlation with BMI across a cohort of 38 adults.
Original Statement
“a remarkably lower level of 15‐HETE was found in overweight (BMI > 25 kg m⁻²) and diabetes mellitus (DM) subjects compared with lean individuals (BMI < 25 kg m⁻²)... we identified a significant negative correlation between 15‐HETE and BMI.”
Evidence Quality Assessment
Claim Status
appropriately stated
Study Design Support
Design supports claim
Appropriate Language Strength
association
Can only show association/correlation
Assessment Explanation
The claim correctly uses correlational language based on observational human data. The authors report a negative correlation, and the verb 'are lower' accurately reflects the association without implying causation.
Evidence from Studies
Supporting (1)
The study found that people who are heavier (have higher BMI) tend to have less of a chemical called 15-HETE in their blood, which matches the claim that higher body weight is linked to lower levels of this substance.