Abstract
Abstract
Background:
As the population ages, the frequency of late-onset hypogonadism (LOH) has been increasing in primary care. However, there are few data available on the prevalence of LOH among patients of primary care in Asia, particularly in Korea.
Methods:
To assess the prevalence and associated factors for LOH in primary care, a cross-sectional study was undertaken. A total of 1,235 men aged ≥40 years were consecutively enrolled in this study by 18 family physicians from August 2010 to May 2011. An electrochemiluminescence immunoassay was used to measure the total testosterone levels in morning blood samples. Via a structured self-administered questionnaire, subjects were asked about demographic characteristics and lifestyle. Investigating physicians checked concurrent illnesses and measured patient body mass index and abdominal circumference.
Results:
The crude prevalence rate of LOH was 16.8% (95% confidence interval [95% CI], 14.7–18.9), which increased with age (p<0.001). It was significantly higher in patients with abdominal obesity (odds ratio [OR], 1.85; 95% CI, 1.27–2.70), metabolic syndrome (OR, 1.46; 95% CI, 1.02–2.10), and diabetes (OR, 1.57; 95% CI, 1.10–2.24).
Conclusions:
These results suggest a prevalence of LOH of 16.8% in men aged ≥40 years presenting to family practices. Several other diseases, such as abdominal obesity, metabolic syndrome, and diabetes, as well as age, were associated with LOH.
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