1. |
- Ahern, Tomás, et al.
(author)
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Natural history, risk factors and clinical features of primary hypogonadism in ageing men : Longitudinal Data from the European Male Ageing Study
- 2016
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In: Clinical Endocrinology. - : Wiley. - 0300-0664. ; 85:6, s. 891-901
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Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Objective: In ageing men, the incidence and clinical significance of testosterone (T) decline accompanied by elevated luteinizing hormone (LH) are unclear. We describe the natural history, risk factors and clinical features associated with the development of biochemical primary hypogonadism (PHG, T < 10·5 nmol/l and LH>9·4U/l) in ageing men. Design, Patients and Measurements: A prospective observational cohort survey of 3,369 community-dwelling men aged 40-79 years, followed up for 4·3 years. Men were classified as incident (i) PHG (eugonadal [EUG, T ≥ 10·5 nmol/l] at baseline, PHG at follow-up), persistent (p) PHG (PHG at baseline and follow-up), pEUG (EUG at baseline and follow-up) and reversed (r) PHG (PHG at baseline, EUG at follow-up). Predictors and changes in clinical features associated with the development of PHG were analysed by regression models. Results: Of 1,991 men comprising the analytical sample, 97·5% had pEUG, 1·1% iPHG, 1·1% pPHG and 0·3% rPHG. The incidence of PHG was 0·2%/year. Higher age (>70 years) [OR 12·48 (1·27-122·13), P = 0·030] and chronic illnesses [OR 4·24 (1·08-16·56); P = 0·038] predicted iPHG. Upon transition from EUG to PHG, erectile function, physical vigour and haemoglobin worsened significantly. Men with pPHG had decreased morning erections, sexual thoughts and haemoglobin with increased insulin resistance. Conclusions: Primary testicular failure in men is uncommon and predicted by old age and chronic illness. Some clinical features attributable to androgen deficiency, but not others, accompanied the T decline in men who developed biochemical PHG. Whether androgen replacement can improve sexual and/or physical function in elderly men with PHG merits further study.
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2. |
- Anand-Ivell, Ravinder, et al.
(author)
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Association of age, hormonal, and lifestyle factors with the Leydig cell biomarker INSL3 in aging men from the European Male Aging Study cohort
- 2022
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In: Andrology. - : Wiley. - 2047-2919 .- 2047-2927. ; 10:7, s. 1328-1338
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Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Background: Aging in men is accompanied by a broad range of symptoms, including sexual dysfunction, cognitive and musculoskeletal decline, obesity, type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease and hypertension, organ degeneration/failure, and increasing neoplasia, some of which are associated with declining levels of Leydig cell-produced testosterone. High natural biological variance, together with multiple factors that can modulate circulating testosterone concentration, may influence its interpretation and clinical implications. Insulin-like peptide 3 is a biomarker of Leydig cell function that might provide complementary information on testicular health and its downstream outcomes. Objectives: To characterize insulin-like peptide 3 as a biomarker to assess gonadal status in aging men. Methods and materials: A large European multicenter (European Male Aging Study) cohort of community-dwelling men was analyzed to determine how insulin-like peptide 3 relates to a range of hormonal, anthropometric, and lifestyle parameters. Results and discussion: Insulin-like peptide 3 declines cross-sectionally and longitudinally within individuals at approximately 15% per decade from age 40 years, unlike testosterone (1.9% per decade), which is partly compensated by increasing pituitary luteinizing hormone production. Importantly, lower insulin-like peptide 3 in younger men appears to persist with aging. Multiple regression analysis shows that, unlike testosterone, insulin-like peptide 3 is negatively dependent on luteinizing hormone and sex hormone-binding globulin and positively dependent on follicle-stimulating hormone, suggesting a different mechanism of gonadotropic regulation. Circulating insulin-like peptide 3 is negatively associated with increased body mass index or waist circumference and with smoking, and unlike testosterone, it is not affected by weight loss in obese individuals. Geographic variation in mean insulin-like peptide 3 within Europe appears to be largely explained by differences in these parameters. The results allowed the establishment of a European-wide reference range for insulin-like peptide 3 (95% confidence interval) adjusted for increasing age. Conclusion: Insulin-like peptide 3 is a constitutive biomarker of Leydig cell functional capacity and is a robust, reliably measurable peptide not subject to gonadotropin-dependent short-term regulation and within-individual variation in testosterone.
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3. |
- Antonio, Leen, et al.
(author)
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Associations Between Sex Steroids and the Development of Metabolic Syndrome: A Longitudinal Study in European Men
- 2015
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In: Journal of Clinical Endocrinology and Metabolism. - : The Endocrine Society. - 1945-7197 .- 0021-972X. ; 100:4, s. 1396-1404
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Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Context: Low testosterone (T) has been associated with incident metabolic syndrome (MetS), but it remains unclear if this association is independent of sex hormone binding globulin (SHBG). Estradiol (E2) may also be associated with MetS, but few studies have investigated this. Objective: To study the association between baseline sex steroids and the development of incident MetS and to investigate the influence of SHBG, body mass index (BMI) and insulin resistance on this risk. Methods: Three thousand three hundred sixty nine community-dwelling men aged 40-79 years were recruited for participation in EMAS. MetS was defined by the updated NCEP ATP III criteria. Testosterone and E2 levels were measured by liquid and gas chromatography/mass spectrometry, respectively. Logistic regression was used to assess the association between sex steroids and incident MetS. Results: One thousand six hundred fifty one men without MetS at baseline were identified. During follow-up, 289 men developed incident MetS, while 1362 men did not develop MetS. Men with lower baseline total T levels were at higher risk for developing MetS [odds ratio (OR) = 1.72, P < .001), even after adjustment for SHBG (OR = 1.43, P < .001), BMI (OR = 1.44, P < .001) or homeostasis model assessment of insulin resistance (HOMA-IR) (OR = 1.64, P < .001). E2 was not associated with development of MetS (OR = 1.04; P = .56). However, a lower E2/T ratio was associated with a lower risk of incident MetS (OR = 0.38; P < .001), even after adjustment for SHBG (OR = 0.48; P < .001), BMI (OR = 0.60; P = .001) or HOMA-IR (OR = 0.41; P < .001). Conclusions: Inmen, lower Tlevels, but not E2, are linked with an increased risk of developing MetS, independent of SHBG, BMI or insulin resistance. A lower E2/T ratio may be protective against developing MetS.
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6. |
- Bentham, James, et al.
(author)
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A century of trends in adult human height
- 2016
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In: eLIFE. - 2050-084X. ; 5
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Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Being taller is associated with enhanced longevity, and higher education and earnings. We reanalysed 1472 population-based studies, with measurement of height on more than 18.6 million participants to estimate mean height for people born between 1896 and 1996 in 200 countries. The largest gain in adult height over the past century has occurred in South Korean women and Iranian men, who became 20.2 cm (95% credible interval 17.522.7) and 16.5 cm (13.319.7) taller, respectively. In contrast, there was little change in adult height in some sub-Saharan African countries and in South Asia over the century of analysis. The tallest people over these 100 years are men born in the Netherlands in the last quarter of 20th century, whose average heights surpassed 182.5 cm, and the shortest were women born in Guatemala in 1896 (140.3 cm; 135.8144.8). The height differential between the tallest and shortest populations was 19-20 cm a century ago, and has remained the same for women and increased for men a century later despite substantial changes in the ranking of countries.
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7. |
- Bentham, James, et al.
(author)
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A century of trends in adult human height
- 2016
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In: eLIFE. - : eLife Sciences Publications Ltd. - 2050-084X. ; 5
-
Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Being taller is associated with enhanced longevity, and higher education and earnings. We reanalysed 1472 population-based studies, with measurement of height on more than 18.6 million participants to estimate mean height for people born between 1896 and 1996 in 200 countries. The largest gain in adult height over the past century has occurred in South Korean women and Iranian men, who became 20.2 cm (95% credible interval 17.5–22.7) and 16.5 cm (13.3– 19.7) taller, respectively. In contrast, there was little change in adult height in some sub-Saharan African countries and in South Asia over the century of analysis. The tallest people over these 100 years are men born in the Netherlands in the last quarter of 20th century, whose average heights surpassed 182.5 cm, and the shortest were women born in Guatemala in 1896 (140.3 cm; 135.8– 144.8). The height differential between the tallest and shortest populations was 19-20 cm a century ago, and has remained the same for women and increased for men a century later despite substantial changes in the ranking of countries.
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8. |
- Bentmar Holgersson, Magdalena, et al.
(author)
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Androgen receptor polymorphism dependent variation in prostate specific antigen concentrations of European men.
- 2014
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In: Cancer Epidemiology Biomarkers & Prevention. - 1538-7755. ; 23:10, s. 2048-2056
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Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Background Androgens acting via the androgen receptor (AR) stimulate production of prostate specific antigen (PSA), which is a clinical marker of prostate cancer (PCa). Since genetic variants in the AR may have a significant impact on the risk of being diagnosed with PCa, the aim was to investigate if AR-variants were associated with the risk of having PSA above clinically used cut-off thresholds of 3 or 4 ng/mL in men without PCa. Methods Men without PCa history (n=1744) were selected from the European Male Ageing Study (EMAS) cohort of 40-80 year old men from 8 different European centers. Using linear and logistic regression models, with age and center as covariates, we investigated whether AR-variants (CAG repeat-length and/or SNP genotype) were associated with having serum PSA concentrations above 3 or 4 ng/mL, which often are set as cut-off concentrations for further investigation of PCa. Results Carriers of the SNP rs1204038 A-allele (16% of the men) were more likely to have PSA>3 and 4 ng/mL (OR; 95%CI 1.65; 1.13-2.40 and 1.87; 1.18-2.96, respectively) than G-allele carriers. They also had shorter CAG-repeats (median 20 vs. 23, p<0.0005), but CAG repeat length per se did not affect the PSA concentrations. Conclusion The A-allele of the SNP rs1204038 gives a 65% higher risk of having PSA above 3 ng/mL than the G-allele in men without PCa, and thereby an increased risk of being referred for further examination on suspicion of PCa. Impact Serum PSA as a clinical marker could be improved by adjustment for AR-genotype.
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9. |
- Boonen, Steven, et al.
(author)
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Influence of bone remodelling rate on quantitative ultrasound parameters at the calcaneus and DXA BMDa of the hip and spine in middle-aged and elderly European men: the European Male Ageing Study (EMAS)
- 2011
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In: European Journal of Endocrinology. - 1479-683X. ; 165:6, s. 977-986
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Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Objective: To assess the influence of sex hormones on markers of bone turnover and to explore the association between these markers and bone health in middle-aged and elderly European men. Design: A cross-sectional population-based survey. Methods: Men aged 40-79 years were recruited from population registers in eight European centres. Subjects completed a postal questionnaire which included questions concerning lifestyle and were invited to undergo quantitative ultrasound (QUS) of the calcaneus and to provide a fasting blood sample from which the bone markers serum N-terminal propeptide of type 1 procollagen (P1NP) and crosslinks (beta C-terminal cross-linked telopeptide (beta-cTX)), total testosterone, total oestradiol (E-2), sex hormone-binding globulin (SHBG) and insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF1) were measured. Dualenergy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA) of the hip and lumbar spine was performed in two centres. Results: A total of 3120, mean age 59.9 years (S.D. = 11.0) were included. After adjustment for centre, age, height, weight, lifestyle factors, season and other hormones, total and free E-2 were negatively associated with beta-cTX but not P1NP while SHBG, IGF1 and parathyroid hormone (PTH) were positively associated with both beta-cTX and P1NP. Total or free testosterone was not independently associated with either bone marker. After the same adjustments, higher levels of both bone markers were significantly associated with lower QUS parameters and lower DXA-assessed bone density at the total hip and lumbar spine. Conclusions: E-2, SHBG, IGF1 and PTH contribute significantly to the regulation/rate of bone turnover in middle-aged and older European men. Higher rates of bone remodelling are negatively associated with male bone health.
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10. |
- Cook, Michael J., et al.
(author)
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Frailty and bone health in European men
- 2017
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In: Age and Ageing. - : Oxford University Press (OUP). - 0002-0729 .- 1468-2834. ; 46:4, s. 635-641
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Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Background: frailty is associated with an increased risk of fragility fractures. Less is known, however, about the association between frailty and bone health.Methods: men aged 40-79 years were recruited from population registers in eight European centres for participation in the European Male Aging Study. Subjects completed a comprehensive assessment which included quantitative ultrasound (QUS) scan of the heel (Hologic-SAHARA) and in two centres, dual-energy bone densitometry (dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry, DXA). Frailty was defined based on an adaptation of Fried's phenotype criteria and a frailty index (FI) was constructed. The association between frailty and the QUS and DXA parameters was determined using linear regression, with adjustments for age, body mass index and centre.Results: in total, 3,231 subjects contributed data to the analysis. Using the Fried categorisation of frailty, pre-frail and frail men had significantly lower speed of sound (SOS), broadband ultrasound attenuation (BUA) and quantitative ultrasound index (QUI) compared to robust men (P< 0.05). Similar results were seen using the FI after categorisation into 'high', 'medium' and 'low' levels of frailty. Using the Fried categorisation, frail men had lower femoral neck bone mineral density (BMD) compared to robust men (P < 0.05), but not lower lumbar spine BMD. Using the FI categorisation, a 'high' level of frailty (FI > 0.35) was associated with lower lumbar spine BMD (P < 0.05) when compared to those with low (FI < 0.2), but not lower femoral neck BMD. When analysed as a continuous variable, higher FI was linked with lower SOS, BUA and QUI (P < 0.05).Conclusions: optimisation of bone health as well as prevention of falls should be considered as strategies to reduce fractures in frail older people.
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12. |
- Corona, Giovanni, et al.
(author)
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Age-Related Changes in General and Sexual Health in Middle-Aged and Older Men: Results from the European Male Ageing Study (EMAS)
- 2010
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In: Journal of Sexual Medicine. - : Oxford University Press (OUP). - 1743-6109 .- 1743-6095. ; 7:4, s. 1362-1380
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Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Introduction. Limited information is available concerning the general and sexual health status of European men. Aim. To investigate the age-related changes in general and sexual health in middle-aged and older men from different countries of the European Union. Methods. This is a cross-sectional multicenter survey performed on a sample of 3,369 community-dwelling men aged 40-79 years old (mean 60 +/- 11 years). Subjects were randomly selected from eight European centers including centers from nontransitional (Florence [Italy], Leuven [Belgium], Malmo [Sweden], Manchester [United Kingdom], Santiago de Compostela [Spain]) and transitional countries (Lodz [Poland], Szeged [Hungary], Tartu [Estonia]). Main Outcome Measures. Different parameters were evaluated including the Beck's Depression Inventory for the quantification of depressive symptoms, the Short Form-36 Health Survey for the assessment of the quality of life (QoL), the International Prostate Symptom Score for the evaluation of lower urinary tract symptoms, and the European Male Ageing Study sexual function questionnaire for the study of sexual function. Results. More than 50% of subjects reported the presence of one or more common morbidities. Overall, hypertension (29%), obesity (24%), and heart diseases (16%) were the most prevalent conditions. Around 30% of men reported erectile dysfunction (ED) and 6% reported severe orgasmic impairment, both of which were closely associated with age and concomitant morbidities. Only 38% of men reporting ED were concerned about it. Furthermore, concern about ED increased with age, peaking in the 50-59 years age band, but decreased thereafter. Men in transitional countries reported a higher prevalence of morbidities and impairment of sexual function as well as a lower QoL. Conclusion. Sexual health declined while concomitant morbidities increased in European men as a function of age. The burden of general and sexual health is higher in transitional countries, emphasizing the need to develop more effective strategies to promote healthy aging for men in these countries. Corona G, Lee DM, Forti G, O'Connor DB, Maggi M, O'Neill TW, Pendleton N, Bartfai G, Boonen S, Casanueva FF, Finn JD, Giwercman A, Han TS, Huhtaniemi IT, Kula K, Lean MEJ, Punab M, Silman AJ, Vanderschueren D, Wu FCW, and EMAS Study Group. Age-related changes in general and sexual health in middle-aged and older men: Results from the European Male Ageing Study (EMAS). J Sex Med 2010;7:1362-1380.
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13. |
- Corona, Giovanni, et al.
(author)
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Self-Reported Shorter Than Desired Ejaculation Latency and Related Distress—Prevalence and Clinical Correlates : Results From the European Male Ageing Study
- 2021
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In: Journal of Sexual Medicine. - : Oxford University Press (OUP). - 1743-6095. ; 18:5, s. 908-919
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Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Background: Few data have looked at the occurrence and clinical correlates of self-reported shorter than desired ejaculation latency (rapid ejaculation, RE) and its related distress in the general population. Aim: To determine the prevalence and clinical correlates of self-reported RE and RE- related distress in middle age and older European men. Methods: Subjects were recruited from population samples of men aged 40-79 years across 8 European centers. Outcomes: Self-reported RE and its related distress were derived from the European male Aging Study (EMAS) sexual function questionnaire (EMAS-SFQ). Beck's depression Inventory (BDI) was used for the quantification of depressive symptoms, the Short Form 36 health survey (SF-36) for the assessment of the quality of life, the International Prostate Symptom Score (IPSS) for the evaluation of lower urinary tract symptoms. Results: About 2,888 community dwelling men aged 40-79 years old (mean 58.9 ± 10.8 years) were included in the analysis. Among the subjects included, 889 (30.8%) self-reported RE. Among them, 211 (7.3%) claimed to be distressed (5.9% and 1.4% reported mild or moderate-severe distress, respectively). Increasing levels of RE-related distress were associated with a progressive worse sexual functioning, higher risk of ED and with couple impairment, along with a higher prevalence of depressive symptoms (all P < 0.05). Furthermore, a worse quality of life and higher IPSS score were associated with RE-related distress (all P < 0.05). The aforementioned results were confirmed even when patients using drugs possibly interfering with ejaculation or those without a stable relationship were excluded from the analysis. Clinical Implications: RE is a frequent condition in men from the general population; however, its related distress is relatively modest. Nonetheless, men with any degree of self-reported RE show increasing levels of depression, worse quality of life and worse couple satisfaction. Strengths & Limitations: This is the first study estimating the prevalence of self-reported RE and its related distress, along with their biological and psychological correlates, in a population sample of European middle age and older men. However, is should be recognized that the diagnosis of RE was derived from patient reports and not supported by Intra-ejaculatory-Latency-Time (IELT) measurements. Conclusion: Self-reported RE is relatively common in European men aged more than 40 years. The reported limited RE-related distress may explain the relatively low number of medical consultations for RE. RE-related distress is associated with worse sexual function, couple impairment, and more LUTS resulting in a worse quality of life and mood disturbances. Corona G, Rastrelli G, Bartfai G, et al. Self-Reported Shorter Than Desired Ejaculation Latency and Related Distress—Prevalence and Clinical Correlates: Results From the European Male Ageing Study. J Sex Med Rev 2021;18:908–919.
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14. |
- Danaei, Goodarz, et al.
(author)
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Effects of diabetes definition on global surveillance of diabetes prevalence and diagnosis: a pooled analysis of 96 population-based studies with 331288 participants
- 2015
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In: The Lancet Diabetes & Endocrinology. - 2213-8595 .- 2213-8587. ; 3:8, s. 624-637
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Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Background Diabetes has been defined on the basis of different biomarkers, including fasting plasma glucose (FPG), 2-h plasma glucose in an oral glucose tolerance test (2hOGTT), and HbA(1c). We assessed the effect of different diagnostic definitions on both the population prevalence of diabetes and the classification of previously undiagnosed individuals as having diabetes versus not having diabetes in a pooled analysis of data from population-based health examination surveys in different regions. Methods We used data from 96 population-based health examination surveys that had measured at least two of the biomarkers used for defining diabetes. Diabetes was defined using HbA(1c) (HbA(1c) >= 6 . 5% or history of diabetes diagnosis or using insulin or oral hypoglycaemic drugs) compared with either FPG only or FPG-or-2hOGTT definitions (FPG >= 7 . 0 mmol/L or 2hOGTT >= 11 . 1 mmol/L or history of diabetes or using insulin or oral hypoglycaemic drugs). We calculated diabetes prevalence, taking into account complex survey design and survey sample weights. We compared the prevalences of diabetes using different definitions graphically and by regression analyses. We calculated sensitivity and specificity of diabetes diagnosis based on HbA1c compared with diagnosis based on glucose among previously undiagnosed individuals (ie, excluding those with history of diabetes or using insulin or oral hypoglycaemic drugs). We calculated sensitivity and specificity in each survey, and then pooled results using a random-effects model. We assessed the sources of heterogeneity of sensitivity by meta-regressions for study characteristics selected a priori. Findings Population prevalence of diabetes based on FPG- or-2hOGTT was correlated with prevalence based on FPG alone (r= 0 . 98), but was higher by 2-6 percentage points at different prevalence levels. Prevalence based on HbA(1c) was lower than prevalence based on FPG in 42 . 8% of age-sex-survey groups and higher in another 41 . 6%; in the other 15 . 6%, the two definitions provided similar prevalence estimates. The variation across studies in the relation between glucose-based and HbA(1c)-based prevalences was partly related to participants' age, followed by natural logarithm of per person gross domestic product, the year of survey, mean BMI, and whether the survey population was national, subnational, or from specific communities. Diabetes defined as HbA(1c) 6 . 5% or more had a pooled sensitivity of 52 . 8% (95% CI 51 . 3-54 . 3%) and a pooled specificity of 99 . 74% (99 . 71-99 . 78%) compared with FPG 7 . 0 mmol/L or more for diagnosing previously undiagnosed participants; sensitivity compared with diabetes defined based on FPG-or-2hOGTT was 30 . 5% (28 . 7-32 . 3%). None of the preselected study-level characteristics explained the heterogeneity in the sensitivity of HbA(1c) versus FPG. Interpretation Different biomarkers and definitions for diabetes can provide different estimates of population prevalence of diabetes, and differentially identify people without previous diagnosis as having diabetes. Using an HbA(1c)-based definition alone in health surveys will not identify a substantial proportion of previously undiagnosed people who would be considered as having diabetes using a glucose-based test.
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16. |
- Dupont, Jolan, et al.
(author)
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Inflammatory markers are associated with quality of life, physical activity, and gait speed but not sarcopenia in aged men (40–79 years)
- 2021
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In: Journal of Cachexia, Sarcopenia and Muscle. - : Wiley. - 2190-5991 .- 2190-6009. ; 12:6, s. 1818-1831
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Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Background: Age-related chronic low-grade inflammation (inflammaging) is one of the proposed mechanisms behind sarcopenia. However, findings regarding inflammatory markers in sarcopenic older adults are conflicting. This study aimed to determine the association between inflammatory markers, prevalent as well as incident sarcopenia, sarcopenia-defining parameters, quality of life (QoL), and physical activity in middle-aged and older men. Methods: Men aged 40–79 years (mean 59.66 ± 11.00y) were recruited from population registers in eight European centres for participation in the European Male Aging study (EMAS). Subjects were assessed at baseline (2003–2005) and again after a median follow-up of 4.29 years. In 2577 participants, associations between baseline inflammatory markers [high-sensitive C-reactive protein (hs-CRP), white blood cell count (WBC), albumin] and baseline physical activity (PASE) and QoL (SF-36) were analysed. In the Leuven and Manchester cohort (n = 447), data were available on muscle mass (whole-body dual X-ray absorptiometry) and strength. In this subgroup, cross-sectional associations between baseline inflammatory markers and sarcopenia-defining parameters (handgrip strength, chair stand test, appendicular lean mass, and gait speed) and prevalent sarcopenia were examined. In a further subgroup (n = 277), associations with knee extensor strength were explored. Longitudinally, predictive value of baseline inflammation on functional decline, physical activity, QoL, and incident sarcopenia was examined. Subgroup analyses were performed in subgroups with chronic inflammation and stratified by age. Linear and logistic regressions were used, adjusted for age, body mass index, centre, and smoking. Results: At baseline, hs-CRP and WBC were negatively associated with PASE score (hs-CRP: β = −7.920, P < 0.001; and WBC: β = −4.552, P < 0.001) and the physical component score of SF-36 (hs-CRP: β = −1.025, P < 0.001; and WBC: β = −0.364, P < 0.001). Baseline WBC levels were negatively associated with gait speed (β = −0.013; P = 0.025), quadriceps isometric 90° (β = −5.983; P = 0.035) and isokinetic 60°/s peak torque/body weight (β = −5.532; P = 0.027). The prevalence of sarcopenia at baseline was 18.1% (n = 81). Of those without sarcopenia at baseline, 64 (18.6%) satisfied criteria for sarcopenia at follow-up. There were no significant associations between baseline inflammatory markers and either prevalent or incident sarcopenia, or change in level of sarcopenia-defining parameters between baseline and follow-up. Conclusions: In middle-aged and older men, hs-CRP and WBC were negatively associated with QoL and PASE scores, while WBC was negatively associated with gait speed and knee strength. Associations with hs-CRP remained significant in all ages, whereas WBC levels were only associated with PASE, gait speed and knee strength in older adults (60–79 years). Baseline inflammatory markers (hs-CRP, WBC and albumin) did not predict functional decline, decline in physical activity, decreased QoL or incident sarcopenia.
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17. |
- Eendebak, Robert J.A.H., et al.
(author)
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Elevated luteinizing hormone despite normal testosterone levels in older men-natural history, risk factors and clinical features
- 2018
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In: Clinical Endocrinology. - : Wiley. - 0300-0664. ; 88:3, s. 479-490
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Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Objective: Elevated luteinizing hormone (LH) with normal testosterone (T) suggests compensated dysregulation of the gonadal axis. We describe the natural history, risk factors and clinical parameters associated with the development of high LH (HLH, LH >9.4 U/L) in ageing men with normal T (T ≥ 10.5 nmol/L). Design, Patients and Measurements: We conducted a 4.3-year prospective observational study of 3369 community-dwelling European men aged 40-79 years. Participants were classified as follows: incident (i) HLH (n = 101, 5.2%); persistent (p) HLH (n = 128, 6.6%); reverted (r) HLH (n = 46, 2.4%); or persistent normal LH (pNLH, n = 1667, 85.8%). Potential predictors and changes in clinical features associated with iHLH and rHLH were analysed using regression models. Results: Age >70 years (OR = 4.12 [2.07-8.20]), diabetes (OR = 2.86 [1.42-5.77]), chronic pain (OR = 2.53 [1.34-4.77]), predegree education (OR = 1.79 [1.01-3.20]) and low physical activity (PASE ≤ 78, OR = 2.37 [1.24-4.50]) predicted development of HLH. Younger age (40-49 years, OR = 8.14 [1.35-49.13]) and nonsmoking (OR = 5.39 [1.48-19.65]) predicted recovery from HLH. Men with iHLH developed erectile dysfunction, poor health, cardiovascular disease (CVD) and cancer more frequently than pNLH men. In pHLH men, comorbidities, including CVD, developed more frequently, and cognitive and physical function deteriorated more, than in pNLH men. Men with HLH developed primary hypogonadism more frequently (OR = 15.97 [5.85-43.60]) than NLH men. Men with rHLH experienced a small rise in BMI. Conclusions: Elevation of LH with normal T is predicted by multiple factors, reverts frequently and is not associated with unequivocal evidence of androgen deficiency. High LH is a biomarker for deteriorating health in aged men who tend to develop primary hypogonadism.
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18. |
- Eendebak, Robert J A H, et al.
(author)
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The androgen receptor gene CAG repeat in relation to 4-year changes in androgen-sensitive endpoints in community-dwelling older European men
- 2016
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In: European Journal of Endocrinology. - 0804-4643. ; 175:6, s. 583-593
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Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Context: The androgen receptor (AR) gene exon 1 CAG repeat length has been proposed to be a determinant of between-individual variations in androgen action in target tissues, which might regulate phenotypic differences of human ageing. However, findings on its phenotypic effects are inconclusive. Objective: To assess whether the AR CAG repeat length is associated with longitudinal changes in endpoints that are influenced by testosterone (T) levels in middle-Aged and elderly European men. Design: Multinational European observational prospective cohort study. Participants: A total of 1887 men (mean ± s.d. age: 63 ± 11 years; median follow up: 4.3 years) from centres of eight European countries comprised the analysis sample after exclusion of those with diagnosed diseases of the hypothalamic-pituitary-testicular (HPT) axis. Main outcome measures: Longitudinal associations between the AR CAG repeat and changes in androgen-sensitive endpoints (ASEs) and medical conditions were assessed using regression analysis adjusting for age and centre. The AR CAG repeat length was treated as both a continuous and a categorical (6-20; 21-23; 24-39 repeats) predictor. Additional analysis investigated whether results were independent of baseline T or oestradiol (E2) levels. Results: The AR CAG repeat, when used as a continuous or a categorical predictor, was not associated with longitudinal changes in ASEs or medical conditions after adjustments. These results were independent of T and E2 levels.
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19. |
- Han, Thang S, et al.
(author)
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Associations of obesity with socioeconomic and lifestyle factors in middle-aged and elderly men: European Male Aging Study (EMAS).
- 2015
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In: European Journal of Endocrinology. - 1479-683X. ; 172:1
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Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Background: Social and lifestyle influences on age-related changes in body morphology are complex because lifestyle and physiological response to social stress can affect body fat differently. Objective: We examined the associations of socioeconomic status (SES) and lifestyle factors with body mass index (BMI) and waist circumference (WC) in middle-aged and elderly European men. Design and setting: Cross-sectional study of 3,319 men aged 40-79 recruited from eight European centres. Outcomes: We estimated relative risk ratios (RRRs) of overweight/obesity associated with unfavourable SES and lifestyles. Results: The prevalence of BMI 30kg/m2 or WC 102cm rose linearly with age, except in the 8th decade when high BMI, but not high WC, declined. Among men aged 40-59y, compared to non-smokers or most active men, centre and BMI adjusted RRRs for having a WC between 94-101.9cm increased by 1.6-fold in current smokers, and 2.7-fold in least active men, maximal at 2.8-fold in least active men who smoked. Similar patterns but greater RRRs were observed for men with WC≥102cm, notably 8.4-fold greater in least active men who smoked. Compared to men in employment, those who were not in employment had increased risk of having a high WC by 1.4-fold in the 40-65y group and by 1.3-fold in the 40-75y group. These relationships were weaker among elderly men. Conclusion: Unfavourable SES and lifestyles associate with increased risk of obesity, especially in middle-aged men. The combination of inactivity and smoking was the strongest predictor of high WC, providing a focus for health promotion and prevention at an early age.
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20. |
- Han, Thang S., et al.
(author)
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Changes in prevalence of obesity and high waist circumference over four years across European regions : the European male ageing study (EMAS)
- 2017
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In: Endocrine. - : Springer Science and Business Media LLC. - 1355-008X .- 1559-0100. ; 55:2, s. 456-469
-
Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Diversity in lifestyles and socioeconomic status among European populations, and recent socio-political and economic changes in transitional countries, may affect changes in adiposity. We aimed to determine whether change in the prevalence of obesity varies between the socio-politically transitional North-East European (Łódź, Poland; Szeged, Hungary; Tartu, Estonia), and the non-transitional Mediterranean (Santiago de Compostela, Spain; Florence, Italy) and North-West European (Leuven, Belgium; Malmö, Sweden; Manchester, UK) cities. This prospective observational cohort survey was performed between 2003 and 2005 at baseline and followed up between 2008 and 2010 of 3369 community-dwelling men aged 40–79 years. Main outcome measures in the present paper included waist circumference, body mass index and mid-upper arm muscle area. Baseline prevalence of waist circumference ≥ 102 cm and body mass index ≥ 30 kg/m2, respectively, were 39.0, 29.5 % in North-East European cities, 32.4, 21.9 % in Mediterranean cities, and 30.0, 20.1 % in North-West European cities. After median 4.3 years, men living in cities from transitional countries had mean gains in waist circumference (1.1 cm) and body mass index (0.2 kg/m2), which were greater than men in cities from non-transitional countries (P = 0.005). North-East European cities had greater gains in waist circumference (1.5 cm) than in Mediterranean cities (P < 0.001). Over 4.3 years, the prevalence of waist circumference ≥ 102 cm had increased by 13.1 % in North-East European cities, 5.8 % in the Mediterranean cities, 10.0 % in North-West European cities. Odds ratios (95 % confidence intervals), adjusted for lifestyle factors, for developing waist circumference ≥ 102 cm, compared with men from Mediterranean cities, were 2.3 (1.5–3.5) in North-East European cities and 1.6 (1.1–2.4) in North-West European cities, and 1.6 (1.2–2.1) in men living in cities from transitional, compared with cities from non-transitional countries. These regional differences in increased prevalence of waist circumference ≥ 102 cm were more pronounced in men aged 60–79 years than in those aged 40–59 years. Overall there was an increase in the prevalence of obesity (body mass index ≥ 30 kg/m2) over 4.3 years (between 5.3 and 6.1 %) with no significant regional differences at any age. Mid-upper arm muscle area declined during follow-up with the greatest decline among men from North-East European cities. In conclusion, increasing waist circumference is dissociated from change in body mass index and most rapid among men living in cities from transitional North-East European countries, presumably driven by economic and socio–political changes. Information on women would also be of value and it would be of interest to relate the changes in adiposity to dietary and other behavioural habits.
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21. |
- Han, Thang S., et al.
(author)
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Impaired quality of life and sexual function in overweight and obese men: the European Male Ageing Study
- 2011
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In: European Journal of Endocrinology. - 1479-683X. ; 164:6, s. 1003-1011
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Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Background: Few published data link overweight and obesity with measures of quality of life (QoL) including sexual health in men. Objective: To assess the association of overweight/obesity with impairment of physical and psychological QoL and sexual functions in men. Design and setting: Cross-sectional, multicentre survey of 3369 community-dwelling men aged 40-79 (mean +/- S.D., 60 +/- 11) years randomly selected from eight European centres. Outcomes: Adiposity was assessed by body mass index (BMI) and waist circumference (WC), QoL and functional impairments by physical and psychological function domains of the Short Form-36 questionnaire, Beck's Depression Inventory and the European Male Ageing Study sexual function questionnaire. Results: Complete data on sexual activities and erectile function were available in 2734 (92%) and 3193 (95%) of the participants respectively. From the population studied, 814 men were obese (BMI >= 30 kg/m(2)) and 1171 had WC >= 102 cm, 25% of all men were unable to do vigorous activity and 2-13% reported depressive symptoms. Symptoms of sexual dysfunction ranged between 22% (low sexual desire) and 40% (infrequent morning erections) of the participants. Among obese men with both BMI >= 30 kg/m(2) and WC >= 102 cm, at least one symptom of impaired physical, psychological and sexual function was reported by 41, 43 and 73% of the participants respectively. Compared with the reference group of non-obese men (BMI < 30 kg/m(2) and WC < 102cm), men with BMI >= 30 kg/m(2) and WC >= 102 cm more frequently reported at least one symptom of impaired physical function (odds ratio (OR)=2.67; confidence interval (CI): 2.07-3.45, P < 0.001), impaired psychological function (OR=1.48; CI: 1.14-1.90, P < 0.01) and impaired sexual function (OR=1.45; CI: 1.14-1.85, P < 0.01). These functional impairments were also more prevalent in men who had WC >= 102 cm even with BMI < 30 kg/m(2), but those with BMI >= 30 kg/m(2) and WC < 102 cm generally did not suffer from increased impaired physical or sexual health. Men with high BMI and WC were at even greater likelihood of having a composite of two or more or three or more symptoms compared with those with normal BMI and WC. Conclusions: Men with high WC, including those who are 'non-obese' with BMI < 30 kg/m(2), have poor QoL with symptoms of impaired physical, psychological and sexual functions. Health promotion to improve QoL should focus on prevention of obesity and central fat accumulation.
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22. |
- Holliday, Kate L., et al.
(author)
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The ESR1 (6q25) Locus Is Associated with Calcaneal Ultrasound Parameters and Radial Volumetric Bone Mineral Density in European Men
- 2011
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In: PLoS ONE. - : Public Library of Science (PLoS). - 1932-6203. ; 6:7
-
Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Purpose: Genome-wide association studies (GWAS) have identified 6q25, which incorporates the oestrogen receptor alpha gene (ESR1), as a quantitative trait locus for areal bone mineral density (BMDa) of the hip and lumbar spine. The aim of this study was to determine the influence of this locus on other bone health outcomes; calcaneal ultrasound (QUS) parameters, radial peripheral quantitative computed tomography (pQCT) parameters and markers of bone turnover in a population sample of European men. Methods: Eight single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNP) in the 6q25 locus were genotyped in men aged 40-79 years from 7 European countries, participating in the European Male Ageing Study (EMAS). The associations between SNPs and measured bone parameters were tested under an additive genetic model adjusting for centre using linear regression. Results: 2468 men, mean (SD) aged 59.9 (11.1) years had QUS measurements performed and bone turnover marker levels measured. A subset of 628 men had DXA and pQCT measurements. Multiple independent SNPs showed significant associations with BMD using all three measurement techniques. Most notably, rs1999805 was associated with a 0.10 SD (95%CI 0.05, 0.16; p = 0.0001) lower estimated BMD at the calcaneus, a 0.14 SD (95%CI 0.05, 0.24; p = 0.004) lower total hip BMDa, a 0.12 SD (95%CI 0.02, 0.23; p = 0.026) lower lumbar spine BMDa and a 0.18 SD (95%CI 0.06, 0.29; p = 0.003) lower trabecular BMD at the distal radius for each copy of the minor allele. There was no association with serum levels of bone turnover markers and a single SNP which was associated with cortical density was also associated with cortical BMC and thickness. Conclusions: Our data replicate previous associations found between SNPs in the 6q25 locus and BMDa at the hip and extend these data to include associations with calcaneal ultrasound parameters and radial volumetric BMD.
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23. |
- Huhtaniemi, Ilpo T., et al.
(author)
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Comparison of serum testosterone and estradiol measurements in 3174 European men using platform immunoassay and mass spectrometry; relevance for the diagnostics in aging men
- 2012
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In: European Journal of Endocrinology. - 1479-683X. ; 166:6, s. 983-991
-
Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Background: The limitations of serum testosterone and estradiol (E-2) measurements using nonextraction platform immunoassays (IAs) are widely recognized. Switching to more specific mass spectrometry (MS)-based methods has been advocated, but directly comparative data on the two methods are scarce. Methods: We compared serum testosterone and E-2 measurements in a large sample of middle-aged/elderly men using a common platform IA and a gas chromatography (GC)-MS method, in order to assess their limitations and advantages, and to diagnose male hypogonadism. Of subjects from the European Male Aging Study (n = 3174; age 40-79 years), peripheral serum testosterone and E-2 were analyzed using established commercial platform IAs (Roche Diagnostics E170) and in-house GC MS methods. Results: Over a broad concentration range, serum testosterone concentration measured by IA and MS showed high correlation (R=0.93, P<0.001), which was less robust in the hypogonadal range (<11 nmol/l; R=0.72, P<0.001). The IA/MS correlation was weaker in E-2 measurements (R=0.32, P<0.001, at E-2 <40.8 pmol/l, and R=0.74, P<0.001, at E-2 >40.8 pmol/l). Using MS as the comparator method, IA ascertained low testosterone compatible with hypogonadism (<11 nmol/l), with 75% sensitivity and 96.3% specificity. The same parameters with IA for the detection of low E-2 (<40.7 pmol/l) were 13.3 and 99.3%, and for high E-2 (>120 pmol/l) 88.4 and 88.6%. Conclusion: A validated platform IA is sufficient to detect subnormal testosterone concentrations in the diagnosis of male hypogonadism. The IA used for E-2 measurements showed poor correlation with MS and may only be suitable for the detection of high E-2 in men.
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24. |
- Huhtaniemi, Ilpo T, et al.
(author)
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Effect of Polymorphisms in Selected Genes Involved in Pituitary-Testicular Function on Reproductive Hormones and Phenotype in Aging Men.
- 2010
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In: The Journal of clinical endocrinology and metabolism. - : The Endocrine Society. - 1945-7197 .- 0021-972X. ; 95, s. 1898-1908
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Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Context: Polymorphisms in genes involved in regulation, biosynthesis, metabolism, and actions of testicular sex hormones may influence hormone balance and phenotype of aging men. Objective: We investigated the relationships between polymorphisms in genes related to pituitary-testicular endocrine function and health status. Design and Setting: Using cross-sectional baseline data, we conducted a multinational prospective cohort observational study consisting of a population survey of community-dwelling men. Participants: A total of 2748 men, aged 40-79 (mean +/- SD, 60.2 + 11.2) yr, were randomly recruited from eight European centers. Forty-three polymorphisms were genotyped in the following genes: androgen receptor (AR), estrogen receptor-alpha and -beta (ESR1 and ESR2), steroid 5alpha-reductase type II (SRD5A2), 17alpha-hydroxylase/17,20-lyase (CYP17A1), aromatase (CYP19A1), sex hormone-binding globulin (SHBG), LH beta-subunit (LHB), and LH receptor (LHCGR). Main Outcome Measures: We measured the associations between gene polymorphisms and endocrine, metabolic, and phenotypic parameters related to aging and sex hormone action. Results: Several polymorphisms in SHBG, ESR2, AR, CYP19A1, and LHB were significantly associated with circulating levels of SHBG, LH, total, free, and bioavailable testosterone and estradiol, the LH x testosterone product, and indices of insulin sensitivity. Apart from several previously reported associations between genes affecting estrogen levels and heel ultrasound parameters, no associations existed between polymorphisms and nonhormonal variables (anthropometry, blood lipids, blood pressure, hemoglobin, prostate symptoms, prostate-specific antigen, sexual dysfunction, cognition). Conclusion: In aging men, polymorphisms in genes related to the pituitary-testicular endocrine function significantly influence circulating LH, testosterone, and estradiol levels, but the downstream effects may be too small to influence secondary phenotypic parameters.
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25. |
- Huhtaniemi, Ilpo T, et al.
(author)
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Increased Estrogen Rather Than Decreased Androgen Action Is Associated with Longer Androgen Receptor CAG Repeats.
- 2009
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In: Journal of Clinical Endocrinology and Metabolism. - : The Endocrine Society. - 1945-7197 .- 0021-972X. ; 94, s. 277-284
-
Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Context: The individual variability in the waning androgenic-anabolic functions of aging men may be influenced by the CAG repeat polymorphism in exon 1 of the androgen receptor (AR), affecting androgen sensitivity. However, findings on its phenotypic effects are inconclusive. Objective: To investigate the relationships between health status, various reproductive hormones and the AR CAG repeat length. Design: A multi-national prospective cohort observational study - cross-sectional baseline data. Setting: Population survey of community-dwelling men. Participants: Men (40-79-yr-old; n=3,369) randomly recruited from centers in eight European countries; CAG repeat analysis was performed in 2,878 men. Main outcome measures: The correlations of the CAG repeat length with selected endocrine, metabolic and phenotypic parameters related to aging and sex hormone action. Results: Only minor differences were found in CAG repeat lengths between the eight European countries. They showed significant positive association with total, free and bioavailable levels of testosterone (T) and estradiol (E2). FSH but not LH correlated inversely with CAG repeat length. Significant associations were found with bone ultrasound parameters at the calcaneus. Negative correlation was found with triglycerides, but not with other blood lipids, or with anthropometry, blood pressure, hemoglobin, insulin sensitivity, or sexual and prostatic functions. Conclusions: The AR CAG repeat length correlates significantly with serum T and E2 of aging men. Weaker transcriptional activity of the AR with longer CAG-encoded polyglutamine repeats appears to be totally or near-totally compensated for by higher T levels. The residual phenotypic correlations may reflect differences in estrogen levels/actions following aromatization of the higher T levels.
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26. |
- Ivell, Richard, et al.
(author)
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The Leydig cell biomarker INSL3 as a predictor of age-related morbidity : Findings from the EMAS cohort
- 2022
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In: Frontiers in Endocrinology. - : Frontiers Media SA. - 1664-2392. ; 13
-
Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Background: Insulin-like peptide 3 (INSL3) is a constitutive hormone secreted in men by the mature Leydig cells of the testes. It is an accurate biomarker for Leydig cell functional capacity, reflecting their total cell number and differentiation status. Objectives: To determine the ability of INSL3 to predict hypogonadism and age-related morbidity using the EMAS cohort of older community-dwelling men. Materials & methods: Circulating INSL3 was assessed in the EMAS cohort and its cross-sectional and longitudinal relationships to hypogonadism, here defined by testosterone (T) <10.5nmol/l, and a range of age-related morbidities determined by correlation and regression analysis. Results & discussion: While INSL3 is an accurate measure of primary hypogonadism, secondary and compensated hypogonadism also indicate reduced levels of INSL3, implying that testicular hypogonadism does not improve even when LH levels are increased, and that ageing-related hypogonadism may combine both primary and secondary features. Unadjusted, serum INSL3, like calculated free testosterone (cFT), LH, or the T/LH ratio reflects hypogonadal status and is associated with reduced sexual function, bone mineral density, and physical activity, as well as increased occurrence of hypertension, cardiovascular disease, cancer, and diabetes. Using multiple regression analysis to adjust for a range of hormonal, anthropometric, and lifestyle factors, this relationship is lost for all morbidities, except for reduced bone mineral density, implying that INSL3 and/or its specific receptor, RXFP2, may be causally involved in promoting healthy bone metabolism. Elevated INSL3 also associates with hypertension and cardiovascular disease. When unadjusted, INSL3 in phase 1 of the EMAS study was assessed for its association with morbidity in phase 2 (mean 4.3 years later); INSL3 significantly predicts 7 out of 9 morbidity categories, behaving as well as cFT in this regard. In contrast, total T was predictive in only 3 of the 9 categories. Conclusion: Together with its low within-individual variance, these findings suggest that assessing INSL3 in men could offer important insight into the later development of disease in the elderly.
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27. |
- Lee, David M., et al.
(author)
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Association between 25-hydroxyvitamin D levels and cognitive performance in middle-aged and older European men
- 2009
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In: Journal of Neurology, Neurosurgery and Psychiatry. - : BMJ. - 1468-330X .- 0022-3050. ; 80:7, s. 722-729
-
Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Background: Although there is evidence that vitamin D inadequacy may be linked to adverse cognitive outcomes, results from studies on this topic have been inconsistent. The aim of this trial was to examine the association between 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25(OH) D) levels and cognitive performance in middle-aged and older European men. Methods: This population-based cross-sectional study included 3,369 men aged 40-79 years from eight centres enrolled in the European Male Ageing Study. Cognitive function was assessed using the Rey-Osterrieth Complex Figure (ROCF) test, the Camden Topographical Recognition Memory (CTRM) test and the Digit Symbol Substitution Test (DSST). Serum 25(OH) D levels were measured by radioimmunoassay. Additional assessments included measurement of physical activity, functional performance and mood/depression. Associations between cognitive function and 25(OH) D levels were explored using locally weighted and linear regression models. Results: In total, 3,133 men (mean (+/- SD) age 60 +/- 11 years) were included in the analysis. The mean (+/- SD) 25(OH) D concentration was 63 +/- 31 nmol/l. In age-adjusted linear regressions, high levels of 25(OH) D were associated with high scores on the copy component of the ROCF test (beta per 10 nmol/l = 0.096; 95% CI 0.049 to 0.144), the CTRM test (beta per 10 nmol/l= 0.075; 95% CI 0.026 to 0.124) and the DSST (beta per 10 nmol/l = 0.318; 95% CI 0.235 to 0.401). After adjusting for additional confounders, 25(OH) D levels were associated with only score on the DSST (beta per 10 nmol/l = 0.152; 95% CI 0.051 to 0.253). Locally weighted and spline regressions suggested the relationship between 25(OH) D concentration and cognitive function was most pronounced at 25(OH) D concentrations below 35 nmol/l. Conclusion: In this study, lower 25(OH) D levels were associated with poorer performance on the DSST. Further research is warranted to determine whether vitamin D sufficiency might have a role in preserving cognitive function in older adults.
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28. |
- Lee, David M., et al.
(author)
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Association of 25-hydroxyvitamin D, 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D and parathyroid hormone with mortality among middle-aged and older European men
- 2014
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In: Age and Ageing. - : Oxford University Press (OUP). - 1468-2834 .- 0002-0729. ; 43:4, s. 528-535
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Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Setting: prospective cohort analysis within the European Male Ageing Study. Participants: 2,816 community-dwelling men aged 40-79 years at baseline. Methods: Cox regression was used to examine the association of all-cause mortality with 25(OH)D, 1,25(OH)(2)D and PTH; cardiovascular and cancer mortality were modelled using competing-risks regression. Results were expressed as hazard ratios (HR) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) for Cox models; sub-hazard ratios (SHR) and 95% CIs for competing-risks models. Results: a total of 187 men died during a median of 4.3 years of follow-up. Serum levels of 25(OH)D (per 1 SD decrease: HR = 1.45; 95% CI = 1.16, 1.81) and 1,25(OH)(2)D (per 1 SD decrease: HR = 1.20; 95% CI = 1.00, 1.44) were associated with an increased risk of all-cause mortality after adjusting for age, centre, smoking, self-reported morbidities, physical activity and functional performance. Only levels of 25(OH)D < 25 nmol/l predicted cancer mortality (SHR = 3.33; 95% CI = 1.38, 8.04). Conclusion: lower 25(OH)D and 1,25(OH)(2)D levels independently predicted all-cause mortality in middle-aged and older European men. Associations with cancer mortality were only observed among men with very low levels of 25(OH)D. These associations were only partially explained by the range of adverse health and lifestyle factors measured here.
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29. |
- Lee, David M., et al.
(author)
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Association of hypogonadism with vitamin D status: the European Male Ageing Study
- 2012
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In: European Journal of Endocrinology. - 1479-683X. ; 166:1, s. 77-85
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Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Objective: Interrelationships between hormones of the hypothalamic-pituitary-testicular (HPT) axis, hypogonadism, vitamin D and seasonality remain poorly defined. We investigated whether HPT axis hormones and hypogonadism are associated with serum levels of 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25(OH)D) in men. Design and methods: Cross-sectional survey of 3369 community-dwelling men aged 40-79 years in eight European centres. Testosterone (T), oestradiol (E(2)) and dihydrotestosterone were measured by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry; LH, FSH, sex hormone binding globulin (SHBG), 25(OH)D and parathyroid hormone by immunoassay. Free T was calculated from total T, SHBG and albumin. Gonadal status was categorised as eugonadal (normal T/LH), secondary (low T, low/normal LH), primary (low T, elevated LH) and compensated (normal T, elevated LH) hypogonadism. Associations of HPT axis hormones with 25(OH)D were examined using linear regression and hypogonadism with vitamin D using multinomial logistic regression. Results: In univariate analyses, free T levels were lower (P=0.02) and E(2) and LH levels were higher (P<0.05) in men with vitamin D deficiency (25(OH)D <50 nmol/l). 25(OH)D was positively associated with total and free T and negatively with E(2) and LH in age- and centre-adjusted linear regressions. After adjusting for health and lifestyle factors, no significant associations were observed between 25(OH)D and individual hormones of the HPT axis. However, vitamin D deficiency was significantly associated with compensated (relative risk ratio (RRR)=1.52, P=0.03) and secondary hypogonadism (RRR=1.16, P=0.05). Seasonal variation was only observed for 25(OH)D (P<0.001). Conclusions: Secondary and compensated hypogonadism were associated with vitamin D deficiency and the clinical significance of this relationship warrants further investigation.
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30. |
- Lee, David M, et al.
(author)
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Cohort Profile: The European Male Ageing Study.
- 2013
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In: International Journal of Epidemiology. - : Oxford University Press (OUP). - 1464-3685 .- 0300-5771. ; 42:2, s. 391-401
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Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- The European Male Ageing Study (EMAS) was designed to examine the hypothesis that inter-individual and regional variability in symptomatic dysfunctions, alterations in body composition and health outcomes in ageing men can be explained by different rates of decline in anabolic hormones, the most important of which being testosterone. Between 2003 and 2005, 3369 community-dwelling men, aged between 40 and 79 years, were recruited from population-based registers in eight European centres to participate in the baseline survey, with follow-up investigations performed a median of 4.3 years later. Largely, identical questionnaire instruments and clinical investigations were used in both phases to capture contemporaneous data on general health (including cardiovascular diseases and chronic conditions), physical and cognitive functioning, mental health, sexual function, quality of life, bone health, chronic pain, disease biomarkers, hormones (sex hormones and metabolic hormones) and genetic polymorphisms. EMAS actively encourages new collaborations, data sharing for validation studies and participation in genetic study consortia. Potential collaborators should contact the principal investigator (F.C.W.W.) in the first instance.
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31. |
- Lee, David M., et al.
(author)
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Endogenous hormones, androgen receptor CAG repeat length and fluid cognition in middle-aged and older men: results from the European Male Ageing Study
- 2010
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In: European Journal of Endocrinology. - 1479-683X. ; 162:6, s. 1155-1164
-
Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Objective: Data remain divergent regarding the activational effects of endogenous hormones on adult cognitive function. We examined the association between cognition, hormones and androgen receptor (AR) CAG repeat length in a large cohort of men. Design: Community-based, cross-sectional study of 3369 men aged 40-79 years. Methods: Cognition tests were the Rey-Osterrieth Complex Figure, Camden Topographical Recognition Memory and Digit-Symbol Substitution. A fluid cognition (FC) z-score was computed from the individual tests. Testosterone, oestradiol (OE2) and 5 alpha-dihydrotestosterone were measured by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry; DHEAS, LH, FSH and sex hormone-binding globulin (SHBG) by electrochemiluminescence. Free testosterone and OE2 were calculated from total hormone, SHBG and albumin. CAG repeat lengths were assayed by PCR genotyping. Results: Total testosterone and free testosterone were associated with higher FC z-scores, LH and FSH with lower FC z-scores in age-adjusted linear regressions. After adjusting for health, lifestyle and centre, a modest association was only observed between DHEAS and a lower FC z-score (beta=-0.011, P=0.02), although this was driven by subjects with DHEAS levels > 10 mu mol/l. Locally weighted plots revealed no threshold effects between hormones and FC. There was no association between CAG repeat length and FC z-score after adjustment for age and centre (beta=-0.007, P=0.06), nor any interaction effect between CAG repeat length and hormones. Conclusion: Our results suggest that endogenous hormones are not associated with a vision-based measure of FC among healthy, community-dwelling men. Further studies are warranted to determine whether 'high' DHEAS levels are associated with poorer performance on a broader range of neuropsychological tests.
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32. |
- Lee, David M., et al.
(author)
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Frailty and Sexual Health in Older European Men
- 2013
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In: Journals of Gerontology - Series B Psychological Sciences and Social Sciences. - : Oxford University Press (OUP). - 1079-5014. ; 68:7, s. 837-844
-
Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Background. There has been little research on how late-life frailty interrelates with sexual health. Our objective was to examine the association of frailty with sexual functioning and satisfaction among older men. Methods. The study population consisted of 1,504 men aged 60 to 79 years, participating in the European Male Aging Study. Self-report questionnaires measured overall sexual functioning, sexual function related distress, and erectile dysfunction. Frailty status was defined using a phenotype (FP) or index (FI). Associations between frailty and sexual function were explored using regression models. Results. Based on the frailty phenotype, 5% of men were classified as frail, and the mean frailty index was 0.18 (SD = 0.12). Frailty was associated with decreasing overall sexual functioning and increasing sexual function related distress in multiple linear regressions adjusted for age, smoking, alcohol consumption, living arrangements, comorbidities, and depression. Frailty was also associated with an increased odds of erectile dysfunction after adjustment for the same confounders: odds ratio = 1.99 (95% confidence interval = 1.14, 3.48) and 4.08 (95% confidence interval = 2.63, 6.36) for frailty phenotype and frailty index, respectively. Conclusions. Frailty was associated with impaired overall sexual functioning, sexual function related distress, and erectile dysfunction. Individuals assessed for frailty-related deficits may also benefit from an appraisal of sexual health as an important aspect of well-being and quality of life.
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33. |
- Lee, David M., et al.
(author)
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Lower vitamin D levels are associated with depression among community-dwelling European men
- 2011
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In: Journal of Psychopharmacology. - : SAGE Publications. - 1461-7285 .- 0269-8811. ; 25:10, s. 1320-1328
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Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Low serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25(OH)D) and elevated parathyroid hormone (PTH) Levels have been linked with depressive symptoms among adults in various clinical settings. Data in generally healthy, community-dwelling individuals remain inconclusive. We investigated whether depression was associated with 25(OH)D and/or PTH in a sample of middle-aged and older men (n = 3369; mean age 60 +/- 11) participating in the European Male Ageing Study, and whether any associations were explained by lifestyle and health factors. The Beck Depression Inventory-II (BDI-II) was used to screen for depression, and serum 25(OH)D and PTH levels measured by radioimmunoassay. Univariate analysis revealed that 25(OH)D levels were lower (p < 0.001) and PTH higher (p = 0.004) in people with depression. In age- and centre-adjusted linear regressions a higher BDI-II score was significantly associated with tower levels of 25(OH)D (p = 0.004). After adjustment for lifestyle and health factors this relationship was attenuated but remained significant (p = 0.01). Using multivariable logistic regression the odds for depression increased approximately 70% across decreasing 25(OH)D quartiles (p(trend) = 0.04). There was no independent association between PIN and depression in any of the muttivariable regressions. Our results reveal an inverse association between 25(OH)D levels and depression, largely independent of several lifestyle and health factors. Further studies are required to determine whether higher levels of vitamin D have an antidepressant effect in older adults.
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34. |
- Lee, David M., et al.
(author)
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The association between different cognitive domains and age in a multi-centre study of middle-aged and older European men
- 2009
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In: International Journal of Geriatric Psychiatry. - : Wiley. - 1099-1166 .- 0885-6230. ; 24:11, s. 1257-1266
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Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Objectives We determined levels of cognitive functioning in community dwelling men aged 40-79 (n = 3265) from eight European centres and investigated to what extent cognitive performance varied between centres, the association between different cognitive domains and age, educational level, co-morbidity and lifestyle factors and the respective contributions of centre and individual factors to cognitive performance. Methods Cognitive domains assessed were visuo-constructional ability and Visual memory (Rey-Osterrieth Complex Figure test, ROCF), topographical memory (Camden Topographical Recognition Memory test, CTRM) and processing speed (Digit-Symbol Substitution test, DSST). Results There were significant between-centre differences in all four cognitive test scores. Using multilevel linear regression analysis (MLRA), age, education, depression, physical performance and smoking were independent predictors of cognitive function and these variables explained 10-13% of the variation in cognitive scores between centres and 17-36% of the variation in scores between individuals within centres. Conclusion Our data suggest that although a proportion of the variance in cognitive function among European men is explained by individual level differences, a significant proportion is due to contextual phenomenon. Such contextual factors need to be considered when analysing multi-centre data and European men should not be treated as homogeneous when assessing cognitive performance using existing instruments. Copyright (C) 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
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35. |
- Lee, David M., et al.
(author)
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The European Male Ageing Study (EMAS): design, methods and recruitment
- 2009
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In: International Journal of Andrology. - : Wiley. - 0105-6263 .- 1365-2605. ; 32:1, s. 11-24
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Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Life expectancy is increasing in most developed countries, in part due to improved socioeconomic conditions and in part to advances in healthcare. It is widely acknowledged that the promotion of healthy ageing by delaying, minimizing or preventing disabilities or diseases is one of the most important public health objectives in this century. In contrast to the menopausal transition in females, we know relatively little about the contribution of androgens and anabolic hormones to the quality of ageing in men. The European Male Ageing Study (EMAS) is a multicentre prospective cohort designed to examine the prevalence, incidence and geographical distribution of gender-specific and general symptoms of ageing in men, including their endocrine, genetic and psychosocial predictors. Men aged 40-79 years were recruited from eight European centres: Florence (Italy), Leuven (Belgium), Lodz (Poland), Malmo (Sweden), Manchester (UK), Santiago de Compostela (Spain), Szeged (Hungary) and Tartu (Estonia). Subjects were recruited from population registers and those who agreed to take part completed a detailed questionnaire including aspects of personal and medical history, lifestyle factors and sexual function. Objective measures of body size, cognition, vision, skeletal health and neuromuscular function were obtained. Blood and DNA specimens were collected for a range of biochemical and genetic analyses. After an average of 4 years, it is planned to resurvey the participants with similar assessments. A total of 3369 men with a mean age of 60 +/- 11 years were recruited. The mean centre response rate was 43%, and highest in those aged 50-59 years. Those who participated were marginally younger than those who were invited but declined to participate (60.0 vs. 61.1 years). Participants left education slightly later than a sample of non-participants, though there were no consistent differences in levels of general health, physical activity, or smoking. EMAS will provide new population-based data concerning the main features that characterize ageing in men and its critical determinants, particularly with reference to age-related changes in hormone levels. Such information is an important prerequisite to develop effective strategies to reduce age-related disabilities and optimise health and well-being into old-age.
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36. |
- Lee, David M., et al.
(author)
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Vitamin D, parathyroid hormone and the metabolic syndrome in middle-aged and older European men
- 2009
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In: European Journal of Endocrinology. - 1479-683X. ; 161:6, s. 947-954
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Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Objectives: Low serum 25-hydroxyviatmin D (25(OH)D) and elevated parathyroid hormone (PTH) levels have been linked to insulin resistance, the metabolic syndrome (MetS) and its components. Data in healthy, community-dwelling Europeans are lacking, and previous studies have not excluded subjects receiving drug treatments that may distort the relationship between 25(OH)D/PTH and MetS. The aim of our analysis was to examine the association of 25(OH)D and PTH with Adult Treatment Panel III-defined MetS in middle-aged and older European men Design: This was a population-based, cross-sectional study of 3369 men aged 40-79 years enrolled in the European Male Ageing Study. Results After exclusion of subjects with missing data. 3069 men with a mean (+/- S.D.) age of 60 +/- 11 years were included in the analysis. Age-adjusted 25(OH)D levels were inversely associated with waist circumference, systolic blood pressure (BP), triglycerides, and glucose (all P < 0.01) Age-adjusted PTH levels were only associated with waist and diastolic BP (both P < 0.05). After adjusting for age, centre, season and lifestyle factors the odds for MetS decreased across increasing 25(OH)D quintiles (odds ratios 0.48 (95% confidence intervals 0.36-0.64) highest versus lowest quintile. P-trend < 0.001). This relationship was unchanged after adjustment for PTH, but was attenuated after additional adjustment for homeostasis model assessment of insulin resistance (0.60 (0.47-0.78) P-trend < 0.001) There was no association between PTH and MetS. Conclusions: Our results demonstrate an inverse relationship between 25(OH)D levels and MetS, which is independent of several confounders and PTH. The relationship is partly explained by insulin resistance. The clinical significance of these observations warrants further study
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37. |
- Limer, Kate L., et al.
(author)
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Genetic Variation in Sex Hormone Genes Influences Heel Ultrasound Parameters in Middle-Aged and Elderly Men: Results From the European Male Aging Study (EMAS)
- 2009
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In: Journal of Bone and Mineral Research. - 1523-4681. ; 24:2, s. 314-323
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Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Genes involved in sex hormone pathways are candidates for influencing bone strength. Polymorphisms in these genes were tested for association with heel quantitative ultrasound (QUS) parameters in middle-aged and elderly European men. Men 40-79 yr of age were recruited from population registers in eight European centers for the European Male Aging Study (EMAS). Polymorphisms were genotyped in AR, ESR1, ESR2, CYP19A1, CYP17A1, SHBG, SRD5A2, LHB, and LHCGR. QUS parameters broadband ultrasound attenuation (BUA) and speed of sound (SOS) were measured in the heel and used to derive BMD. The relationships between Q US parameters and polymorphisms were assessed using linear regression adjusting for age and center. A total of 2693 men, with a mean age of 60.1 +/- 11.1 (SD) yr were included in the analysis. Their mean BUA was 80.0 +/- 18.9 dB/Mhz, SOS was 1550.2 +/- 34.1. m/s, and BMD was 0.542 +/- 0.141 g/cm(2). Significant associations were observed between multiple SNPs in a linkage disequilibrium (LD) block within CYP19A1, peaking at the TCT indel with the deletion allele associating with reduced ultrasound BMD in heterozygotes (beta = -0.016, p = -0.005) and homozygotes (beta = -0.029, p = 0.001). The results for BUA and SOS were similar. Significant associations with QUS parameters were also observed for the CAG repeat in AR and SNPs in CYP17A1, LHCGR, and ESR1 Our data confirm evidence of association between bone QUS parameters and polymorphisms in CYP79A1, as well as modest associations with polymorphisms in CYP17A1, ESR1, LHCGR, and AR in a population sample of European men; this supports a role for genetically determined sex hormone actions in influencing male bone health.
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38. |
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39. |
- McBeth, John, et al.
(author)
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Musculoskeletal pain is associated with very low levels of vitamin D in men: results from the European Male Ageing Study
- 2010
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In: Annals of the Rheumatic Diseases. - : BMJ. - 1468-2060 .- 0003-4967. ; 69:8, s. 1448-1452
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Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Introduction A study was undertaken to test the hypothesis that musculoskeletal pain is associated with low vitamin D levels but the relationship is explained by physical inactivity and/or other putative confounding factors. Methods Men aged 40-79 years completed a postal questionnaire including a pain assessment and attended a clinical assessment (lifestyle questionnaire, physical performance tests, 25-hydroxyvitamin D3 (25-(OH) D) levels from fasting blood sample). Subjects were classified according to 25-(OH) D levels as 'normal' (>= 15 ng/ml) or 'low' (<15 ng/ml). The relationship between pain status and 25-(OH) D levels was assessed using logistic regression. Results are expressed as ORs and 95% CIs. Results 3075 men of mean (SD) age 60 (11) years were included in the analysis. 1262 (41.0%) subjects were pain-free, 1550 (50.4%) reported 'other pain' that did not satisfy criteria for chronic widespread pain (CWP) and 263 (8.6%) reported CWP. Compared with patients who were pain-free, those with 'other pain' and CWP had lower 25-(OH) D levels (n = 239 (18.9%), n = 361 (23.3) and n = 67 (24.1%), respectively, p < 0.05). After adjusting for age, having 'other pain' was associated with a 30% increase in the odds of having low 25-(OH) D while CWP was associated with a 50% increase. These relationships persisted after adjusting for physical activity levels. Adjusting for additional lifestyle factors (body mass index, smoking and alcohol use) and depression attenuated these relationships, although pain remained moderately associated with increased odds of 20% of having low vitamin D levels. Conclusions These findings have implications at a population level for the long-term health of individuals with musculoskeletal pain.
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40. |
- McBeth, John, et al.
(author)
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Perturbed Insulin-like Growth Factor-1 (IGF-1) and IGF Binding Protein-3 Are Not Associated with Chronic Widespread Pain in Men: Results from the European Male Ageing Study.
- 2009
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In: Journal of Rheumatology. - : The Journal of Rheumatology. - 0315-162X .- 1499-2752. ; 36, s. 2523-2530
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Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- OBJECTIVE: To determine whether perturbations of insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1) and IGF binding protein-3 (IGFBP-3) were associated with the presence of chronic widespread pain (CWP) in men. METHODS: The European Male Ageing Study (EMAS) is an 8-center population-based study of men aged 40-79 years recruited from population registers. A questionnaire asked about the presence and duration of musculoskeletal pain, from which subjects reporting CWP were identified. Subjects also had an interviewer-assisted questionnaire: levels of physical activity and mood were assessed, and height and weight were measured. IGF-1 and IGFBP-3 were assayed from a fasting blood sample. Logistic regression models were used to determine the association between IGF measures and CWP. Results were expressed as odds ratios or relative risk ratios. RESULTS: A total of 3206 subjects provided full data. Of those, 1314 (39.0%) reported no pain in the past month and 278 (8.3%) reported pain that satisfied criteria for CWP. IGF-1 concentrations were similar among subjects who reported no pain and those with CWP: 131.5 mg/l and 128.4 mg/l, respectively. This was true also for IGFBP-3 (4.3 and 4.3 mg/l). Obesity was associated with low IGF-1 and a high IGFBP-3/IGF-1 ratio, indicating less bioavailable IGF-1, irrespective of pain status. This relationship persisted after adjustment for comorbidities, depression, smoking, alcohol consumption, and quality of life. CONCLUSION: Overall CWP was not associated with perturbations in IGF-1 and IGFBP-3 concentrations. Hypofunctioning of the axis was noted among subjects who were obese and this was not specific to CWP. These data suggest that IGF-1 is unlikely to be etiologically important in relation to CWP, although the relationship with growth hormone remains to be elucidated.
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41. |
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42. |
- Merisalu, Ave, et al.
(author)
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The contribution of genetic variations of aryl hydrocarbon receptor pathway genes to male factor infertility
- 2007
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In: Fertility and Sterility. - : Elsevier BV. - 1556-5653 .- 0015-0282. ; 88:4, s. 854-859
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Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Objective: To determine whether the polymorphisms in aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AHR), aryl hydrocarbon receptor repressor (AHRR), and aryl hydrocarbon receptor nuclear translocator (ARNT) genes are associated with male factor infertility. Design: An association study. Setting: University research laboratory and andrology clinic. Patient(s): The subjects were infertile Estonian men (n = 112) with azoospermia or oligozoospermia and controls (n = 212) with normal sperm parameters. Intervention(s): Blood samples were obtained for DNA extraction and genotyping. Main Outcome Measure(s): AHR (Arg554Lys), AHRR (Pro 185Ala), and ARNT (G/C allele) polymorphisms were genotyped using allele-specific polymerase chain reaction. Allele and genotype frequencies were compared between infertile men and controls and separately in the normozoospermia, oligozoospermia, and azoospermia groups. Result(s): The AHRR Ala185Ala genotype was implicated in susceptibility to male factor infertility. Ala/Ala genotype frequency increased in the following order: normozoospermia (18.0%), oligozoospermia (26.0%), azoospermia (42.1 %). Allele and genotype frequencies of AHR and ARNT polymorphisms were similar between cases and controls. Conclusion(s): We demonstrated that the AHRR Pro185Ala polymorphism contributed to a predisposition to male factor infertility in the Estonian population. A greater prevalence of the Ala/Ala genotype was found among infertile patients.
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43. |
- Nicholl, Barbara I., et al.
(author)
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Association of HTR2A Polymorphisms With Chronic Widespread Pain and the Extent of Musculoskeletal Pain
- 2011
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In: Arthritis and Rheumatism. - : Wiley. - 1529-0131 .- 0004-3591. ; 63:3, s. 810-818
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Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Objective. The aim of the current study was to investigate whether genetic variation in genes across the serotoninergic system is associated with chronic widespread pain (CWP) and the number of pain sites reported. Methods. A discovery cohort, with pain data at 3 time points, was used to investigate genetic associations with 2 phenotypes: 1) CWP (at >= 2 time points; n = 164) compared with pain-free controls (at 3 time points; n = 172), and 2) the maximum number of pain sites reported at any 1 of the 3 time points (range of sites 0-29; n = 989). A cohort of 2,285 men for whom a DNA sample and pain data were available (including 203 CWP cases and 929 controls) was used for validation. Pairwise tagging (r(2) > 0.8) single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) were genotyped. Logistic and zero-inflated negative binomial regression analyses were used to test for SNP associations with CWP and the number of pain sites, respectively. Results. SNPs in HTR2A were associated with both pain phenotypes in the discovery cohort, and a number of these SNP associations were replicated in the validation cohort, some of which were attenuated after adjustment for depression. There was an increased likelihood of having CWP in subjects with 1 or 2 copies of the T allele of rs12584920 (odds ratio [OR] 1.64, 95% confidence interval [95% CI] 1.01-2.60 [P = 0.03] in the discovery cohort, and OR 1.46, 95% CI 1.07-2.00 [P = 0.018] in the validation cohort). A similar association was observed between rs17289394 and the maximum number of pain sites reported in both cohorts. Results from a meta-analysis of the data from the 2 cohorts further strengthened these findings. Conclusion. The findings of this study support the role of HTR2A in the genetic predisposition to musculoskeletal pain.
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44. |
- Nicholl, Barbara I., et al.
(author)
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No evidence for a role of the catechol-O-methyltransferase pain sensitivity haplotypes in chronic widespread pain
- 2010
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In: Annals of the Rheumatic Diseases. - : BMJ. - 1468-2060 .- 0003-4967. ; 69:11, s. 2009-2012
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Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Objectives The aim of this study was to investigate the association between the catechol-O-methyltransferase (COMT) 'pain sensitivity' haplotypes and chronic widespread pain (CWP) in two distinct cohorts. Methods Cases of CWP and controls free of pain were selected from two population-based studies: the Epidemiology of Functional Disorders study (EPIFUND) (UK) and the European Male Ageing Study (European). The number of cases and controls were 164 and 172, and 204 and 935, respectively. Identical American College of Rheumatology criteria were used in both studies to ascertain CWP status. The EPIFUND study had three time points and cases were classified as subjects with CWP at two or three time points and controls as those free of pain at all three time points. Four single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNP): rs6269, rs4633, rs4818 and rs4680 (V158M) were genotyped using Sequenom technology. Allele and genotype frequencies were compared and haplotype analysis was conducted using PLINK software. Results No differences in allele or genotype frequencies for any of the four SNP were observed between cases and controls for either cohort. Haplotype analysis also showed no difference in the frequency of haplotypes between cases and controls. Conclusions There was no evidence of association between the COMT 'pain sensitivity' haplotypes and CWP in two population-based cohorts.
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45. |
- O'Connor, Daryl B, et al.
(author)
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Assessment of sexual health in aging men in Europe: Development and validation of the European Male Ageing Study sexual function questionnaire
- 2008
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In: Journal of Sexual Medicine. - : Oxford University Press (OUP). - 1743-6109 .- 1743-6095. ; 5:6, s. 1374-1385
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Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Introduction. Assessment of male sexual dysfunction has been the focus of substantial scientific effort. Less research has focused on the development of instruments for the measurement of sexual functioning in aging men. Aim. The aims of this study were: (i) to characterize the psychometric properties of a new brief, reliable, and valid measure of male sexual functioning for use in a large population survey of middle-aged and elderly European men; and (ii) specifically, to determine whether the new instrument, the European Male Ageing Study-sexual function questionnaire (EMAS-SFQ), discriminates between men with high and low levels of circulating testosterone (T) (total T, free T, and bioavailable T). Method. One thousand six hundred men aged 40-79 years completed the self-administered EMAS-SFQ, the Beck depression inventory, and provided a blood sample for assessment of sex hormones. Eighty-five men aged 35-74 years completed the EMAS-SFQ twice, 2 weeks apart to examine the test-retest reliability of the instrument. Main Outcome Measures. Scores on the EMAS-SFQ in relation to age and T levels. Results. Principal component analysis showed that the EMAS-SFQ had four distinct domains (overall sexual functioning [OSF], masturbation, sexual functioning-related distress, and change in sexual functioning). The instrument demonstrated excellent internal and test-retest reliability, as well as convergent, divergent, and discriminant validity. Men with the lowest levels of total, free, and bioavailable T reported lower OSF scores compared to men with the highest T levels. Conclusion. The EMAS-SFQ is a valid and reproducible instrument, sensitive to age and T levels. It should be suitable for the assessment of sexual health in population samples of men in epidemiological studies of aging.
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46. |
- O'Connor, Daryl B, et al.
(author)
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The Relationships between Sex Hormones and Sexual Function in Middle-Aged and Older European Men.
- 2011
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In: The Journal of clinical endocrinology and metabolism. - : The Endocrine Society. - 1945-7197 .- 0021-972X. ; 96, s. 1577-1587
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Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Context: Limited data are available exploring the associations between sex hormones, multiple domains of sexual functioning, and sexual function-related distress in nonpatient samples in Europe. Objectives: The aim of the study was to investigate the relationships between serum testosterone (T), estradiol (E2), and dihydrotestosterone (DHT) and sexual function in a multicenter population-based study of aging in men. Design: Using stratified random sampling, 2838 men aged 40-79 yr completed the European Male Ageing Study-Sexual Function Questionnaire and provided a blood sample for hormone measurements. T, E2, and DHT were measured using gas chromatography-mass spectrometry. Setting: We conducted a community-based population survey in eight European centers. Main Outcome Measures: Self-reported sexual function (overall sexual function, sexual function-related distress, erectile dysfunction, masturbation) was measured. Results: Total and free T, but not E2 or DHT, was associated with overall sexual function in middle-aged and older men. E2 was the only hormone associated with sexual function-related distress such that higher levels were related to greater distress. Free T levels were associated with masturbation frequency and erectile dysfunction in the fully adjusted models, such that higher T was associated with less dysfunction and greater frequency. Moreover, there was a T threshold for the relationship between total T, sexual function, and erectile dysfunction. At T concentrations of 8 nmol/liter or less, T was associated with worse sexual functioning, whereas at T levels over 8 nmol/liter, the relationship came to a plateau. Conclusions: These findings suggest that different hormonal mechanisms may regulate sexual functioning (T) vs. the psychological aspects (E2) of male sexual behavior. Moreover, there was a T threshold for overall sexual function such that at levels greater than 8 nmol/liter the relationship between T and sexual function did not become stronger.
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47. |
- Overman, Margot J., et al.
(author)
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Evaluation of cognitive subdomains, 25-hydroxyvitamin D, and 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D in the European Male Ageing Study
- 2017
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In: European Journal of Nutrition. - : Springer Science and Business Media LLC. - 1436-6207 .- 1436-6215. ; 56:6, s. 2093-2103
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Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Purpose: Although lower levels of vitamin D have been related to poor cognitive functioning and dementia in older adults, evidence from longitudinal investigations is inconsistent. The objective of this study was to determine whether 25-hydroxyvitamin D [25(OH)D] and 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D [1,25(OH)2D] levels are associated with specified measures of cognitive decline in ageing men. Methods: The European Male Ageing Study (EMAS) followed 3369 men aged 40–79 over 4.4 years. 25(OH)D levels at baseline were measured by radioimmunoassay, and 1,25(OH)2D levels were obtained with liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry. Visuoconstructional abilities, visual memory, and processing speed at baseline and follow-up were assessed using the Rey–Osterrieth Complex Figure Test (ROCF), Camden Topographical Recognition Memory (CTRM), and the Digit Symbol Substitution Test (DSST). Results: Following attritions, a total of 2430 men with a mean (SD) age of 59.0 (10.6) were included in the analyses. At baseline, the mean 25(OH)D concentration was 64.6 (31.5) nmol/l, and mean 1,25(OH)2D level was 59.6 (16.6) pmol/l. In age-adjusted linear regression models, high 25(OH)D concentrations were associated with a smaller decline in the DSST (β = 0.007, p = 0.020). Men with low 25(OH)D levels (2D and decline in cognitive subdomains. Conclusion: We found no evidence for an independent association between 25(OH)D or 1,25(OH)2D levels and visuoconstructional abilities, visual memory, or processing speed over on average 4.4 years in this sample of middle-aged and elderly European men.
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48. |
- Overman, Margot J., et al.
(author)
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Glycemia but not the Metabolic Syndrome is Associated with Cognitive Decline : Findings from the European Male Ageing Study
- 2017
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In: American Journal of Geriatric Psychiatry. - : Elsevier BV. - 1064-7481. ; 25:6, s. 662-671
-
Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Objective: Previous research has indicated that components of the metabolic syndrome (MetS), such as hyperglycemia and hypertension, are negatively associated with cognition. However, evidence that MetS itself is related to cognitive performance has been inconsistent. This longitudinal study investigates whether MetS or its components affect cognitive decline in aging men and whether any interaction with inflammation exists. Methods: Over a mean of 4.4 years (SD ± 0.3), men aged 40-79 years from the multicenter European Male Ageing Study were recruited. Cognitive functioning was assessed using the Rey-Osterrieth Complex Figure (ROCF), the Camden Topographical Recognition Memory (CTRM) task, and the Digit Symbol Substitution Test (DSST). High-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP) levels were measured using a chemiluminescent immunometric assay. Results: Overall, 1,913 participants contributed data to the ROCF analyses and 1,965 subjects contributed to the CTRM and DSST analyses. In multiple regression models the presence of baseline MetS was not associated with cognitive decline over time (p > 0.05). However, logistic ordinal regressions indicated that high glucose levels were related to a greater risk of decline on the ROCF Copy (β = -0.42, p < 0.05) and the DSST (β = -0.39, p < 0.001). There was neither a main effect of hs-CRP levels nor an interaction effect of hs-CRP and MetS at baseline on cognitive decline. Conclusion: No evidence was found for a relationship between MetS or inflammation and cognitive decline in this sample of aging men. However, glycemia was negatively associated with visuoconstructional abilities and processing speed.
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49. |
- Overman, Margot J., et al.
(author)
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Reproductive hormone levels, androgen receptor CAG repeat length and their longitudinal relationships with decline in cognitive subdomains in men : The European Male Ageing Study.
- 2022
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In: Physiology and Behavior. - : Elsevier BV. - 0031-9384. ; 252
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Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Objective: It has been proposed that endogenous sex hormone levels may present a modifiable risk factor for cognitive decline. However, the evidence for effects of sex steroids on cognitive ageing is conflicting. We therefore investigated associations between endogenous hormone levels, androgen receptor CAG repeat length, and cognitive domains including visuoconstructional abilities, visual memory, and processing speed in a large-scale longitudinal study of middle-aged and older men. Methods: Men aged 40-79 years from the European Male Ageing Study (EMAS) underwent cognitive assessments and measurements of hormone levels at baseline and follow-up (mean = 4.4 years, SD ± 0.3 years). Hormone levels measured included total and calculated free testosterone and estradiol, dihydrotestosterone, luteinizing hormone, follicle-stimulating hormone, dehydroepiandrosterone sulphate and sex hormone-binding globulin. Cognitive function was assessed using the Rey-Osterrieth Complex Figure Copy and Recall, the Camden Topographical Recognition Memory and the Digit Symbol Substitution Test. Multivariate linear regressions were used to examine associations between baseline and change hormone levels, androgen receptor CAG repeat length, and cognitive decline. Results: Statistical analyses included 1,827 and 1,423 participants for models investigating relationships of cognition with hormone levels and CAG repeat length, respectively. In age-adjusted models, we found a significant association of higher baseline free testosterone (β=-0.001, p=0.005) and dihydrotestosterone levels (β=-0.065, p=0.003) with greater decline on Rey-Osterrieth Complex Figure Recall over time. However, these effects were no longer significant following adjustment for centre, health, and lifestyle factors. No relationships were observed between any other baseline hormone levels, change in hormone levels, or androgen receptor CAG repeat length with cognitive decline in the measured domains. Conclusions: In this large-scale prospective study there was no evidence for an association between endogenous sex hormone levels or CAG repeat length and cognitive ageing in men. These data suggest that sex steroid levels do not affect visuospatial function, visual memory, or processing speed in middle-aged and older men.
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50. |
- Pye, Stephen R., et al.
(author)
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Influence of Insulin-Like Growth Factor Binding Protein (IGFBP)-1 and IGFBP-3 on Bone Health: Results from the European Male Ageing Study
- 2011
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In: Calcified Tissue International. - : Springer Science and Business Media LLC. - 1432-0827 .- 0171-967X. ; 88:6, s. 503-510
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Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- The aim of this study was to determine the influence of insulin-like growth factor binding protein (IGFBP)-1, IGFBP-3, and IGF-I on calcaneal ultrasound parameters in middle-aged and elderly European men. Men aged 40-79 years were recruited from population registers for participation in the European Male Ageing Study (EMAS). Subjects were invited by letter to complete a postal questionnaire and to attend for an interviewer-assisted questionnaire, quantitative ultrasound (QUS) of the calcaneus, and a fasting blood sample from which serum levels of IGFBP-1, IGFBP-3, IGF-I, estradiol (E-2), and SHBG were assayed. The questionnaires included the Physical Activity Scale for the Elderly (PASE) and questions about smoking and alcohol consumption. Estimated bone mineral density (eBMD) was derived as a function of the QUS parameters speed of sound and broadband ultrasound attenuation. Height and weight were measured in all subjects. 3057 men, mean age 59.7 years (standard deviation 11.0) were included in the analysis. After adjusting for age, center, and BMI, higher levels of IGFBP-1 were associated with lower eBMD. Higher levels of both IGFBP-3 and IGF-I were associated with higher eBMD. After further adjustment for PASE score, current smoking, alcohol consumption, free E-2, and SHBG, IGFBP-3 and IGF-I, though not IGFBP-1, remained significantly associated with eBMD. IGFBP-1 was associated with bone health, though the effect could be explained by other factors. IGFBP-3 and IGF-I were independent determinants of bone health in middle-aged and elderly European men.
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