Title:Low Testosterone Levels and Metabolic Syndrome in Aging Male
Volume: 23
Issue: 30
Author(s): Rodrigo Blaya*, Patricia Blaya, Luiza Rhoden and Ernani Luis Rhoden
Affiliation:
- Rua Doutor Freire Alemao, 912/702, 90450-060 - Porto Alegre, RS,Brazil
Keywords:
Low testosterone, aging male, metabolic syndrome, hypogonadism, central obesity, testosterone replacement therapy.
Abstract: Advances in medicine and progressive improvements in the health of the general population in developed
countries have led to considerable increases in life expectancy over recent years. Metabolic syndrome
(MetS) affects approximately 25% of the adult population and its prevalence is increasing all over the world.
Central obesity plays an important role in emergence of MetS. Some studies have suggested that there may be
link between low Total Testosterone levels and emergence of MetS. The objective of this review is to analyze the
complex network of interactions between MetS and low testosterone levels in elderly men, considering etiologic,
diagnostic, and therapeutic aspects. Recent evidence confirms that central obesity is the independent MetS component
correlated to Total Testosterone Levels. Experimental studies suggest a two way road between Low Testosterone
Levels and abdominal obesity. Besides that, Testosterone Replacement Therapy should be restricted to
men with biochemical and clinical features of late onset hypogonadism.
