Association between 25(OH)-vitamin D and testosterone levels: Evidence from men with chronic spinal cord injury

The Journal of Spinal Cord Medicine, 2016 · DOI: 10.1179/2045772315Y.0000000050 · Published: May 1, 2016

Spinal Cord Injury Endocrinology Rehabilitation

Simple Explanation

This study investigates the relationship between vitamin D and testosterone levels in men with chronic spinal cord injury (SCI). These men often have both vitamin D and testosterone deficiencies, making them a good group to study this connection. The study found that men with vitamin D deficiency also had lower testosterone levels. This suggests a possible link between the two, which could be important for managing the health of men with SCI. Even after considering other factors like age, lifestyle, and health conditions, the link between vitamin D and free testosterone remained significant. This highlights the importance of addressing both vitamin D and testosterone deficiencies in SCI patients to improve their overall health.

Study Duration

Not specified

Participants

49 men with chronic spinal cord injury

Evidence Level

Not specified

Key Findings

1
Deficiency of 25(OH)D (<20 ng/mL) was found in 73.5% of the patients with SCI.
2
Lower 25(OH)D levels were associated with lower total and free testosterone levels, higher parathyroid hormone (PTH) levels, and insulin resistance.
3
After adjusting for various factors, a significant independent association remained between lower 25(OH)D levels and lower free testosterone levels.

Research Summary

The study explored the association between vitamin D and testosterone levels in men with chronic SCI, a population known for high rates of both deficiencies. Results indicated that vitamin D deficiency was common and correlated with lower testosterone levels. Furthermore, a significant independent association was found between vitamin D and free testosterone levels, even after adjusting for other factors. The authors conclude that both vitamin D and androgen deficiency are markers of poor health and share common risk factors, emphasizing the need to address these deficiencies in the rehabilitative care of patients with SCI.

Practical Implications

Rehabilitative Approach

Incorporate screening for vitamin D and testosterone deficiencies in men with SCI as part of their routine rehabilitative care.

Lifestyle Modifications

Emphasize lifestyle modifications, such as increased physical activity and weight management, to address common risk factors associated with both hypovitaminosis D and androgen deficiency.

Further Research

Conduct further studies to investigate the causal nature of the association between vitamin D and testosterone levels in men with SCI.

Study Limitations

1
Limited sample size
2
Total testosterone measured by immunoassay (lower accuracy than mass spectrometry)
3
The transversal design does not clarify the nature of the association

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