Testosterone Deficiency Syndrome Risk In 50% Men With Type 2 Diabetes

Data presented today at the Diabetes UK Annual Conference reveal that Testosterone Deficiency Syndrome (TDS) is found in over 50% of men with Type 2 diabetes, more than double the rate in the non-diabetic population1. TDS is associated with a 42% additional risk of developing Type 2 diabetes, and up to 60% additional risk of all-cause and coronary heart disease (CHD) mortality1.

TDS, also known as hypogonadism, describes symptomatic patients with low serum testosterone levels (generally below 12 nmol/L)2. TDS is estimated to affect one in ten men over the age of 50 years3. The data, presented by Dr Geoff Hackett and Professor Hugh Jones reveal that TDS is associated with insulin resistance, raised HbA1c, visceral adiposity, raised BMI and ED, all of which are significant CHD risk factors1.

Dr Geoff Hackett, Consultant in Sexual Medicine, Good Hope Hospital, Sutton Coldfield said; “Testosterone Deficiency Syndrome is more common than GPs realise, particularly amongst men with Type 2 diabetes. Erectile dysfunction has been shown to be a robust predictor of CHD risk in men with Type 2 diabetes and yet neither testing for low testosterone nor ED assessment are part of the QOF. Assessment of testosterone is regarded as mandatory by all published authoritative guidelines on ED management.”