Last updated on June 10th, 2024 at 01:07 pm
Should low testosterone levels be considered an additional criterion for bariatric surgery? A recent study by Dr. Shashank Shah, a leading bariatric surgeon, proposes just that. Published in the indexed journal Obesity Surgery, the study reveals that 60% of obese youths in Mumbai exhibit low testosterone levels.
This groundbreaking study, the first of its kind in India, examined 134 males aged 18 to 30 with a BMI over 32.5 kg/m². Researchers recorded their BMI, total and free testosterone levels, and clinical features such as gynecomastia, hypogonadism, and thinning pubic and armpit hair. Findings indicated that 60% had low testosterone, with another 20% showing borderline levels.
Dr. Shah highlighted the well-documented link between obesity and low testosterone. Fat cells convert testosterone to estrogen, exacerbating hormone deficiencies. Additionally, low testosterone impairs blood sugar metabolism, increasing diabetes risk. Given these factors, Dr. Shah advocates for considering testosterone deficiency when evaluating candidates for bariatric surgery.
“Testosterone is crucial not only for physical health but also for emotional wellbeing, cognitive function, and reducing depression risk,” said Dr. Shah. He argues that addressing testosterone deficiency could enhance patients’ commitment and compliance with weight-loss programs.
Dr. Randeep Wadhwan, president of the Obesity Surgery Society of India, supported the study’s findings. He noted that while weight loss can increase testosterone levels, achieving the necessary 20% weight reduction is challenging without surgical intervention. “Bariatric surgery can significantly aid in achieving these weight-loss goals,” he said.
However, the proposal is not without controversy. Senior endocrinologist Dr. Shashank Joshi expressed skepticism, arguing there is no scientific basis to link testosterone deficiency directly with the need for bariatric surgery. He emphasized that low testosterone should be treated by an endocrinologist based on evidence rather than surgical intervention.
A senior doctor from a public hospital echoed these concerns, pointing out that low testosterone is not exclusive to obesity. “Weight-loss surgery may not benefit individuals with low testosterone who are not obese,” he stated.
This debate underscores the need for further research into the relationship between testosterone levels and obesity. As obesity rates rise, comprehensive studies like Dr. Shah’s will be crucial in developing effective treatment protocols.