To examine associations between endogenous testosterone levels and hypogonadal symptoms in community-dwelling men, and to explore variations by immunoassay method.
Approach:
Study Design: Analyzed data from 657 men in the Vara–Skövde cohort with blood samples collected at baseline (2002–2005) and follow-up (2012–2014), using the Aging Male Symptom questionnaire.
Statistical Analysis: Utilized linear and ordinal logistic regression models to evaluate associations, adjusting for potential confounders.
Key Findings:
In cross-sectional analyses, men with low total testosterone had higher sexual symptom scores compared to those with normal testosterone concentrations (Mean difference = 1.7; 95% CI: 0.4, 2.9; p = 0.01).
No significant differences were found between intermediate and normal testosterone categories.
Testosterone levels at baseline were not associated with total AMS score after ten years.
Interpretation:
Limitations:
The study's cross-sectional nature limits causal inferences.
Potential confounding factors may not have been fully accounted for.
