Abstract
Abstract
Background:
The Japanese population is aging extremely rapidly. Healthy longevity and quality of life (QOL) for the elderly depend on physical and mental well-being, which stem from physical activity of moderate frequency and intensity, and a balanced diet. A biological marker that is associated with healthy longevity and QOL is needed for the organization of a regional health policy. This study examined the relationships between salivary testosterone and QOL of the elderly inhabitants of Miyakojima, an island in Okinawa Prefecture.
Methods:
This community-based study included 193 elderly people (96 men and 97 women), aged 50 years or older, living in Miyakojima. The participants were randomly assigned from the database of Miyakojima inhabitants. QOL of the subjects was evaluated by questionnaires. Salivary testosterone was measured by enzyme immunoassay. We constructed a structural equation model (SEM) to analyze the relationships between saliva testosterone levels and lifestyle and the index of quality of life.
Results:
Salivary testosterone was available in 50 of 96 males and 29 of 97 females. The mean age of participants was 65.4±11.1 years (64.2±10.4 in males, 66.6±11.7 in females). The mean testosterone level was 53.8±51.5 pg/mL in males and 23.5±28.6 pg/mL in females. In SEM, the influence indices from the constructive concepts to observe variables showed relatively high path coefficients. Testosterone levels have positive effects on functional capacity, vitality, and QOL in men over 65.
Conclusions:
Salivary testosterone levels correlated with functional capacity, vitality, and QOL in men over 65. Salivary testosterone also correlated with women's QOL. For the assessment of functional capacity, vitality, and QOL in the local elderly population, salivary testosterone can be a good surrogate biological marker.
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