Improvement in testosterone levels in teen males post bariatric surgery

A recent study from the University of Buffalo reports that bariatric surgery and the resulting weight loss and treatment of diabetes improves testosterone levels in obese male teens. Researchers conducted this study because low testosterone contributes to low fertility and sexual health. The author of the study, Paresh Dandona, states that “This is the first major study in obese adolescents examining the effect of bariatric surgery in this age group, leading to normalization of testosterone concentrations.” 

The study included 34 teen boys who were tracked for five years following bariatric procedures. Results of the study showed that prior to surgery, 73% of the teens had low testosterone levels. Two years following surgery, that percentage dropped to 20%. 

Although this study looked specifically at older teens (ages 15-20), Dandona notes that up to one-fourth of obese men struggle with low testosterone, and that number rises to 33% if the patient also has Type 2 diabetes. He recommends that all obese males should be tested for testosterone deficiency because of its prevalence. 

While testosterone is usually associated with sexual function in males, it plays many other important roles related to muscle size and bone health and too little testosterone is also related to poor concentration, depression, hair loss, hot flashes, and irritability.

Weight loss and diabetes management can help improve natural testosterone levels for males. Testosterone therapy can also be utilized to improve levels. If you have questions about testosterone levels or sexual health, it is important to speak to your doctor about what options you may have.