Association between anthropometric parameters and testosterone deficiency in men

Abstract

Objectives: Obesity and anthropometric measures are related to the testosterone concentration in men, although debate remains as to which anthropometric parameters are most important. Fat mass or adiposity is an important negative determinant of total serum testosterone level. We aimed to investigate the relationship of anthropometric measurements with serum total testosterone level and to find out the most reliable predictive anthropometric measurements of testosterone deficiency.

Methods: Three hundred and nine male subjects were recruited. Anthropometric measurements: weight, height, waist and hip circumferences were obtained. Body mass index (BMI) and waist-to-hip ratio (W/H) were calculated. Baseline total testosterone (TT) level was estimated.

Results: There was a significant negative correlation between TT level and waist circumference (r = - 0.146, p = 0.010), W/H ratio (r = -0.173, p = 0.002) and age (r = -0.559, p = 0.001). The relationship between the response (Testosterone deficiency/ No testosterone deficiency) and the model variables of age (OR = 1.35, p = 0.042) and waist circumference (OR = 1.99, p = 0.035) showed significant odds ratio (OR), while BMI and hip circumference exhibited non-significant OR.

Conclusion: There is evidence for supporting the association between anthropometric measurements and serum total testosterone level. Waist circumference was the most reliable predictor of testosterone deficiency.