Why low testosterone may increase your risk of diabetes

By Daily Mail Reporter

PUBLISHED: 19:01 EST, 3 May 2012 | UPDATED: 19:01 EST, 3 May 2012

Men with low levels of testosterone could be at greater risk of developing diabetes

Men with low levels of testosterone could be at greater risk of developing diabetes, a study has suggested.

Researchers from the University of Edinburgh found low testosterone levels are linked to a resistance to insulin, the hormone that controls blood sugar levels.

Testosterone is present throughout the body and low levels are associated with increased obesity, a known risk factor for developing type 2 diabetes.

But scientists said the study provides evidence of increased risk 'even when body mass is not affected'.

Dr Kerry McInnes, from the universitys endocrinology unit, said: 'We know that men with low testosterone levels are more likely to become obese and as a result, develop diabetes.

'This study shows that low testosterone is a risk factor for diabetes no matter how much a person weighs. As men age their testosterone levels lower.

'This, along with increasing obesity, will increase the incidence of diabetes.'

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Why low testosterone may increase your risk of diabetes

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