Australian researchers have begun a world-first study that aims to help
men lose weight and prevent diabetes -- by giving them more
testosterone.
The $4.8 million study will look at the potential benefits of
treating men with testosterone supplements in conjunction with a
dedicated weight-loss program through Weight Watchers.
Up to 1500 Australian men most at risk of developing type 2 diabetes,
aged 50-74, are now being recruited to join the study in the States of
South Australia, Victoria, New South Wales and Western Australia.
"We know that as men get older and gain weight -- especially when
they become large around the belly -- they often suffer from reduced
testosterone levels," says the leader of the study, Professor Gary
Wittert from the University of Adelaide's School of Medicine.
"Lower testosterone has many implications for men's health, such as
reduced motivation to exercise and lack of sexual function. It is also
closely associated with type 2 diabetes, which is an enormous health
burden for Australia.
"By giving testosterone supplements to men in that critical
pre-diabetes stage, and by putting them on a dedicated weight-loss
program, we expect to see sustained reductions in weight and a reduced
chance to develop type 2 diabetes."
Men who sign up for the study will have complimentary access to
Weight Watchers and can follow the program either by attending meetings
or online, which is ideal for men who prefer not to attend a weight loss
group.
Professor Wittert says the study, which will be conducted over at
least two years of the participants' lives, could potentially have a
range of other health benefits for those who take part in it.
He says: "Our hope is that this study will be a life-changing event
for many men in Australia. Older men who have developed a large belly
and are at risk of diabetes now have an opportunity to do something
about their weight, improve their lives, and provide us with
all-important research results that could benefit many others in the
future."
The study is known as T4DM (Testosterone 4 the prevention of Diabetes
Mellitus) and is funded by the National Health and Medical Research
Council (NHMRC).
Story Source:
The above story is reprinted from materials provided by University of Adelaide.
Courtesy: ScienceDaily
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