Endocrine Abstracts

Functional hypogonadism and prevalence of decreased total testosterone level in type 2 diabetic male patients

Background: Approximately 50 % of older males with obesity and type 2 diabetes, exhibit low total testosterone levels, many also signs of hypogonadism. Functional hypogonadism negatively affects glycemic control, exacerbates early cardio-vascular complications, causes lower bone mineral density, erectile dysfunction, reduces lean body mass, and accelerates the accumulation of visceral fat. We aimed to determine the prevalence of decreased total testosterone level type 2 diabetic males in Slovenia.

Research design and methods: We presents the results of cross-sectional study in male patients with type 2 diabetes and obesity, with goal to assess prevalence of decreased total testosterone level. Participants were inquired to answer the The Aging Males’ Symptom (AMS) scale questionnaire. Functional hypogonadism was diagnosed as a biochemical deficiency of circulating testosterone levels (total testosterone below 11 nmol/l and free testosterone below 220 pmol/l) on at least two separate morning measurements after an overnight fast.

Results: 165 patients were included in this cross-sectional study. 87 patients exhibited decreased total testosterone level (below 11 nmol/l) while 78 had normal level of total testosterone.

Conclusion: Prevalence of decreased level of total testosterone among obese male patients with type 2 diabetes was found to be 52.7 %. Symptoms of androgen deficiency should be corroborated with testosterone level to establish a multidisciplinary approach for management of hypogonadism.