Those with a higher GDF15 level had a significantly higher prevalence of DM (p < 0.001), CKD (p < 0.001) and hypertension (p = 0.014); higher serum HbA1c (p = 0.001), HOMA-IR (p = 0.003), creatinine (p = 0.001), and urine ACR (p < 0.001). Here, GDF15 is linked to diabetes mellitus.