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Cruickshank M, Hudson J, Hernández R, Aceves-Martins M, Quinton R, Gillies K, Aucott LS, Kennedy C, Manson P, Oliver N, Wu F, Bhattacharya S, Dhillo WS, Jayasena CN, Brazzelli M. The effects and safety of testosterone replacement therapy for men with hypogonadism: the TestES evidence synthesis and economic evaluation. Health Technol Assess 2024; 28:1-210. [PMID: 39248210 PMCID: PMC11404359 DOI: 10.3310/jryt3981] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/10/2024] Open
Abstract
Background Low levels of testosterone cause male hypogonadism, which is associated with sexual dysfunction, tiredness and reduced muscle strength and quality of life. Testosterone replacement therapy is commonly used for ameliorating symptoms of male hypogonadism, but there is uncertainty about the magnitude of its effects and its cardiovascular and cerebrovascular safety. Aims of the research The primary aim was to evaluate the safety of testosterone replacement therapy. We also assessed the clinical and cost-effectiveness of testosterone replacement therapy for men with male hypogonadism, and the existing qualitative evidence on men's experience and acceptability of testosterone replacement therapy. Design Evidence synthesis and individual participant data meta-analysis of effectiveness and safety, qualitative evidence synthesis and model-based cost-utility analysis. Data sources Major electronic databases were searched from 1992 to February 2021 and were restricted to English-language publications. Methods We conducted a systematic review with meta-analysis of individual participant data according to current methodological standards. Evidence was considered from placebo-controlled randomised controlled trials assessing the effects of any formulation of testosterone replacement therapy in men with male hypogonadism. Primary outcomes were mortality and cardiovascular and cerebrovascular events. Data were extracted by one reviewer and cross-checked by a second reviewer. The risk of bias was assessed using the Cochrane Risk of Bias tool. We performed one-stage meta-analyses using the acquired individual participant data and two-stage meta-analyses to integrate the individual participant data with data extracted from eligible studies that did not provide individual participant data. A decision-analytic Markov model was developed to evaluate the cost per quality-adjusted life-years of the use of testosterone replacement therapy in cohorts of patients of different starting ages. Results We identified 35 trials (5601 randomised participants). Of these, 17 trials (3431 participants) provided individual participant data. There were too few deaths to assess mortality. There was no difference between the testosterone replacement therapy group (120/1601, 7.5%) and placebo group (110/1519, 7.2%) in the incidence of cardiovascular and/or cerebrovascular events (13 studies, odds ratio 1.07, 95% confidence interval 0.81 to 1.42; p = 0.62). Testosterone replacement therapy improved quality of life and sexual function in almost all patient subgroups. In the testosterone replacement therapy group, serum testosterone was higher while serum cholesterol, triglycerides, haemoglobin and haematocrit were all lower. We identified several themes from five qualitative studies showing how symptoms of low testosterone affect men's lives and their experience of treatment. The cost-effectiveness of testosterone replacement therapy was dependent on whether uncertain effects on all-cause mortality were included in the model, and on the approach used to estimate the health state utility increment associated with testosterone replacement therapy, which might have been driven by improvements in symptoms such as sexual dysfunction and low mood. Limitations A meaningful evaluation of mortality was hampered by the limited number of defined events. Definition and reporting of cardiovascular and cerebrovascular events and methods for testosterone measurement varied across trials. Conclusions Our findings do not support a relationship between testosterone replacement therapy and cardiovascular/cerebrovascular events in the short-to-medium term. Testosterone replacement therapy improves sexual function and quality of life without adverse effects on blood pressure, serum lipids or glycaemic markers. Future work Rigorous long-term evidence assessing the safety of testosterone replacement therapy and subgroups most benefiting from treatment is needed. Study registration The study is registered as PROSPERO CRD42018111005. Funding This award was funded by the National Institute for Health and Care Research (NIHR) Health Technology Assessment programme (NIHR award ref: 17/68/01) and is published in full in Health Technology Assessment; Vol. 28, No. 43. See the NIHR Funding and Awards website for further award information.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Jemma Hudson
- Health Services Research Unit, University of Aberdeen, Aberdeen, UK
| | - Rodolfo Hernández
- Health Economics Research Unit, University of Aberdeen, Aberdeen, UK
| | | | - Richard Quinton
- Department of Endocrinology, Royal Victoria Infirmary, Newcastle upon Tyne Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Newcastle, UK
| | - Katie Gillies
- Health Services Research Unit, University of Aberdeen, Aberdeen, UK
| | - Lorna S Aucott
- Health Services Research Unit, University of Aberdeen, Aberdeen, UK
| | - Charlotte Kennedy
- Health Economics Research Unit, University of Aberdeen, Aberdeen, UK
| | - Paul Manson
- Health Services Research Unit, University of Aberdeen, Aberdeen, UK
| | | | - Frederick Wu
- Division of Diabetes, Endocrinology and Gastroenterology, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
| | - Siladitya Bhattacharya
- School of Medicine, Medical Sciences and Nutrition, University of Aberdeen, Aberdeen, UK
| | | | | | - Miriam Brazzelli
- Health Services Research Unit, University of Aberdeen, Aberdeen, UK
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Hernández R, de Silva NL, Hudson J, Cruickshank M, Quinton R, Manson P, Dhillo WS, Bhattacharya S, Brazzelli M, Jayasena CN. Cost-effectiveness of testosterone treatment utilising individual patient data from randomised controlled trials in men with low testosterone levels. Andrology 2024; 12:477-486. [PMID: 38233215 DOI: 10.1111/andr.13597] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/25/2023] [Revised: 12/05/2023] [Accepted: 12/28/2023] [Indexed: 01/19/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Testosterone is safe and highly effective in men with organic hypogonadism, but worldwide testosterone prescribing has recently shifted towards middle-aged and older men, mostly with low testosterone related to age, diabetes and obesity, for whom there is less established evidence of clinical safety and benefit. The value of testosterone treatment in middle-aged and older men with low testosterone is yet to be determined. We therefore evaluated the cost-effectiveness of testosterone treatment in such men with low testosterone compared with no treatment. METHODS A cost-utility analysis comparing testosterone with no treatment was conducted following best practices in decision modelling. A cohort Markov model incorporating relevant care pathways for individuals with hypogonadism was developed for a 10-year-time horizon. Clinical outcomes were obtained from an individual patient meta-analysis of placebo-controlled, double-blind randomised studies. Three starting age categories were defined: 40, 60 and 75 years. Cost utility (quality-adjusted life years) accrued and costs of testosterone treatment, monitoring and cardiovascular complications were compared to estimate incremental cost-effectiveness ratios and cost-effectiveness acceptability curves for selected scenarios. RESULTS Ten-year excess treatment costs for testosterone compared with non-treatment ranged between £2306 and £3269 per patient. Quality-adjusted life years results depended on the instruments used to measure health utilities. Using Beck depression index-derived quality-adjusted life years data, testosterone was cost-effective (incremental cost-effectiveness ratio <£20,000) for men aged <75 years, regardless of morbidity and mortality sensitivity analyses. Testosterone was not cost-effective in men aged >75 years in models assuming increased morbidity and/or mortality. CONCLUSIONS AND FUTURE RESEARCH Our data suggest that testosterone is cost-effective in men <75 years when Beck depression index-derived quality-adjusted life years data are considered; cost-effectiveness in men >75 years is dependent on cardiovascular safety. However, more robust and longer-term cost-utility data are needed to verify our conclusion.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rodolfo Hernández
- Health Economics Research Unit, University of Aberdeen, Foresterhill, Aberdeen, UK
| | - Nipun Lakshitha de Silva
- Faculty of Medicine, General Sir John Kotelawala Defence University, Colombo, Sri Lanka
- Department of Metabolism, Digestion and Reproduction, Imperial College, London, UK
| | - Jemma Hudson
- Health Service Research Unit, University of Aberdeen, Aberdeen, UK
| | | | - Richard Quinton
- Department of Metabolism, Digestion and Reproduction, Imperial College, London, UK
- Translational & Clinical Research Institute, University of Newcastle upon Tyne, Newcastle Upon Tyne, UK
- Department of Endocrinology, Newcastle upon Tyne Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Newcastle Upon Tyne, UK
| | - Paul Manson
- Health Service Research Unit, University of Aberdeen, Aberdeen, UK
| | - Waljit S Dhillo
- Department of Metabolism, Digestion and Reproduction, Imperial College, London, UK
| | - Siladitya Bhattacharya
- School of Medicine, Medical Sciences and Nutrition, University of Aberdeen, Foresterhill, Aberdeen, UK
| | - Miriam Brazzelli
- Health Service Research Unit, University of Aberdeen, Aberdeen, UK
| | - Channa N Jayasena
- Department of Metabolism, Digestion and Reproduction, Imperial College, London, UK
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3
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Zhang B, Li F, Huang C, Xu L, Cao Z, Kang Y, Jiang W, Chang D. The correlation between clinical features and ultrastructure of testis of non-mosaic Klinefelter's syndrome patients with hypogonadism and androgen deficiency: A case report. Heliyon 2023; 9:e19940. [PMID: 37809695 PMCID: PMC10559353 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2023.e19940] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2022] [Revised: 08/23/2023] [Accepted: 09/06/2023] [Indexed: 10/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Klinefelter Syndrome (KS) is a sex chromosomal syndrome usually with an extra X chromosome (47, XXY) in males, which has various phenotype (mosaicism 47, XXY/46, XY, or more chromosomes 48, XXXY, 49, XXXXY) and clinical features, including eunuchoid body proportions, abnormally long legs and arm span, gynecomastia, ynecomastia, absent or decreased facial and pubic hair, small hyalinized testes, small penis, below-normal verbal intelligence quotient, and learning difficulties. At present, there are no studies on the correlation between the clinical characteristics of patients with KS and the ultrastructural changes of intracellular organelles in testicular tissue in China. Case presentation Here we report the ultrastructure manifestation of the testis tissues in a KS patient with hypogonadism and androgen deficiency, to find a relationship between ultrastructural changes of organelles and spermatogenic dysfunction, clinical features, timing of surgery and metabolic abnormalities. It has been shown that the spermatocytes are absent and the ultrastructure of Sertoli cells and Leydig cells is obviously abnormal, which may lead to spermatogenic dysfunction, androgen deficiency, impaired glucose tolerance (IGT), and abdominal fat accumulation. Conclusions Based on the European Academy of Andrology (EAA) Gudilines on Klinefelter Syndrome, this study conducted a retrospective study on the diagnosis and treatment of one adult patient with KS, aiming to provide a standardized diagnosis and treatment for patients with KS. This study is also highly concerned with the correlation between the ultrastructural changes of target organs and clinical symptoms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bin Zhang
- Department of Urology, The 940th Hospital of PLA Joint Logistic Support Force, Lanzhou, Gansu, China
| | - Fudong Li
- Department of Urology, The 940th Hospital of PLA Joint Logistic Support Force, Lanzhou, Gansu, China
| | - Chuang Huang
- Department of Urology, The 940th Hospital of PLA Joint Logistic Support Force, Lanzhou, Gansu, China
| | - Liuting Xu
- Department of Urology, The 940th Hospital of PLA Joint Logistic Support Force, Lanzhou, Gansu, China
| | - Zhigang Cao
- Department of Urology, The 940th Hospital of PLA Joint Logistic Support Force, Lanzhou, Gansu, China
| | - Yafen Kang
- Department of Urology, The 940th Hospital of PLA Joint Logistic Support Force, Lanzhou, Gansu, China
| | - Wei Jiang
- Convalescent Section First of Convalescent Zone Second, Air Force Hangzhou Secret Service Rehabilitation Center, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Dehui Chang
- Department of Urology, The 940th Hospital of PLA Joint Logistic Support Force, Lanzhou, Gansu, China
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4
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Tsampoukas G, Pang KH, Papatsoris A, Moussa M, Miah S. Testosterone Replacement Therapy in the Aged Male: Monitoring Patients’ Quality of Life Utilizing Scoring Systems. Int J Gen Med 2022; 15:7123-7130. [PMID: 36105846 PMCID: PMC9464626 DOI: 10.2147/ijgm.s253183] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2022] [Accepted: 08/30/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Hypogonadism has been associated with significant deterioration of well-being. In the aging male, late-onset hypogonadism affects sexual life, mental health, levels of energy, lower urinary tract symptoms and, therefore, quality of life may be found significantly deteriorated. Testosterone replacement or supplementation therapy has been found efficient to reverse the adverse effects of hypogonadism and improve quality of life. Scales and questionnaires assessing the general health, urinary symptoms, sexual health, and cognition can provide a thorough assessment of the clinical syndrome, optimize treatment, assist the follow-up, and facilitate referrals to other specialties depending on the chief complaint. A systematic assessment might combine several tools, but the optimal ones and the exact usage is unknown. In this narrative review, we are flipping through the literature presenting the available tools per domain for the assessment of quality of life in men on testosterone replacement therapy and we discuss the optimal usage.
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Affiliation(s)
- Georgios Tsampoukas
- Department of Urology, The Great Western Hospital, Swindon, UK
- U-merge Scientific Office, Athens, Greece
- Correspondence: Georgios Tsampoukas, Department of Urology, The Great Western Hospital, Swindon, UK, Email
| | - Karl H Pang
- Institute of Andrology, University College London Hospital, London, UK
| | - Athanasios Papatsoris
- U-merge Scientific Office, Athens, Greece
- Department of Urology, Sismanoglio University Hospital of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | - Mohamad Moussa
- Al Zahraa Hospital, University Medical Center, Lebanese University, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Saiful Miah
- Department of Urology, Wycombe Hospital, Buckinghamshire NHS Trust, High Wycombe, UK
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5
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Izumi K, Iwamoto H, Yaegashi H, Nohara T, Shigehara K, Kadono Y, Nanjo S, Yamada T, Ohtsubo K, Yano S, Mizokami A. Androgen replacement therapy for cancer-related symptoms in male: result of prospective randomized trial (ARTFORM study). J Cachexia Sarcopenia Muscle 2021; 12:831-842. [PMID: 34029455 PMCID: PMC8350213 DOI: 10.1002/jcsm.12716] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2020] [Revised: 03/23/2021] [Accepted: 04/21/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Hypogonadism associated with cancer is reported to cause cachexia and a variety of physical and psychological symptoms. This study aims to evaluate whether androgen replacement therapy can improve cancer-related symptoms in male advanced cancer patients. METHODS An investigator-initiated, prospective, and randomized controlled study was conducted. Patients with low serum testosterone levels (total or free testosterone levels were <2.31 ng/mL or <11.8 pg/mL, respectively) were randomly assigned to the control or testosterone enanthate administration (testosterone group) groups. Testosterone enanthate was injected into the muscle tissue at a dose of 250 mg every 4 weeks (baseline, week 4, and week 8). Differences in quality of life questionnaires and cachexia-related serum protein levels between groups were assessed. RESULTS This study enrolled and randomized 106 and 81 patients, respectively. Moreover, 41 and 40 patients were in the control and testosterone groups, respectively. Although no significant differences in the change of subscales and total scores in Functional Assessment of Anorexia/Cachexia Treatment were noted from the baseline between the two groups, the testosterone group showed a significantly better change in the 'unhappiness' item of the Edmonton Symptom Assessment System at week 12 compared with baseline versus the control group (-1.4 and 0.0 points, respectively; mean, P = 0.007). No significant differences exist in the change of serum interleukin-6 and insulin-like growth factor-1 levels at week 12 from the baseline between the control and testosterone groups. Consequently, the testosterone group significantly inhibited the change in serum tumour necrotic factor-α level at week 12 from the baseline compared with the control group (+0.4 and +0.1 pg/mL, respectively; mean, P = 0.005). CONCLUSIONS Although testosterone enanthate did not improve most of the items in health-related quality of life questionnaires, testosterone enanthate induced a significantly better change in the 'unhappiness' item at week 12 compared with the control. Testosterone enanthate may be a potential treatment option for male advanced cancer patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kouji Izumi
- Department of Integrative Cancer Therapy and Urology, Kanazawa University Graduate School of Medical Science, Kanazawa, Ishikawa, Japan
| | - Hiroaki Iwamoto
- Department of Integrative Cancer Therapy and Urology, Kanazawa University Graduate School of Medical Science, Kanazawa, Ishikawa, Japan
| | - Hiroshi Yaegashi
- Department of Integrative Cancer Therapy and Urology, Kanazawa University Graduate School of Medical Science, Kanazawa, Ishikawa, Japan
| | - Takahiro Nohara
- Department of Integrative Cancer Therapy and Urology, Kanazawa University Graduate School of Medical Science, Kanazawa, Ishikawa, Japan
| | - Kazuyoshi Shigehara
- Department of Integrative Cancer Therapy and Urology, Kanazawa University Graduate School of Medical Science, Kanazawa, Ishikawa, Japan
| | - Yoshifumi Kadono
- Department of Integrative Cancer Therapy and Urology, Kanazawa University Graduate School of Medical Science, Kanazawa, Ishikawa, Japan
| | - Shigeki Nanjo
- Division of Medical Oncology, Cancer Research Institute, Kanazawa University, Kanazawa, Japan
| | - Tadaaki Yamada
- Division of Medical Oncology, Cancer Research Institute, Kanazawa University, Kanazawa, Japan.,Department of Pulmonary Medicine, Graduate School of Medical Science, Kyoto Prefectural University of Medicine, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Koshiro Ohtsubo
- Division of Medical Oncology, Cancer Research Institute, Kanazawa University, Kanazawa, Japan
| | - Seiji Yano
- Division of Medical Oncology, Cancer Research Institute, Kanazawa University, Kanazawa, Japan
| | - Atsushi Mizokami
- Department of Integrative Cancer Therapy and Urology, Kanazawa University Graduate School of Medical Science, Kanazawa, Ishikawa, Japan
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Kabilan A, Skakkebæk A, Chang S, Gravholt CH. Evaluation of the Efficacy of Transdermal and Injection Testosterone Therapy in Klinefelter Syndrome: A Real-Life Study. J Endocr Soc 2021; 5:bvab062. [PMID: 34056502 PMCID: PMC8143670 DOI: 10.1210/jendso/bvab062] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/21/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Context Klinefelter Syndrome (KS) is the most frequent sex chromosome disorder in males. Due to hypergonadotropic hypogonadism, treatment with testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) is commonly indicated. There are no international guidelines for the most appropriate TRT in KS. Objective We aimed to evaluate how different routes of testosterone administration impact testosterone-responsive variables, as well as the development of later metabolic diseases and other complications. Methods We conducted a retrospective study covering 5 years from 2015 to 2020. Data on TRT, biochemical parameters, bone mineral density (BMD), medications, comorbidity, and karyotyping were derived from electronic patient records and The Danish Cytogenetic Register. Results A total of 147 KS males were included: 81 received injection TRT, 61 received transdermal TRT, and 5 did not receive TRT. Testosterone levels were similar in the 2 TRT groups (P = 0.9), while luteinizing hormone and follicle-stimulating hormone levels were higher in the group receiving transdermal TRT (P = 0.002). Levels of cholesterol, blood glucose, hemoglobin A1c, hemoglobin, hematocrit, liver parameters, prostate-specific antigen, and spine and hip BMD were similar in the 2 treatment groups (Ps > 0.05). Conclusion TRT, irrespective of route of administration, affects androgen-responsive variables similarly in males with KS. Neither long-acting injection nor transdermal gel seem to reduce the risk of metabolic diseases significantly. These results should encourage clinicians in seeking the route of administration resulting in the highest degree of adhesion to treatment based on individual patient preferences. Implementation of shared decision-making with patients may be important when choosing TRT.
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Affiliation(s)
- Apiraa Kabilan
- Department of Endocrinology, Aarhus University Hospital, 8200 Aarhus, Denmark.,Department of Internal Medicine, Lillebaelt Hospital, 6000 Kolding, Denmark
| | - Anne Skakkebæk
- Department of Clinical Genetics, Aarhus University Hospital, 8200 Aarhus, Denmark.,Department of Molecular Medicine, Aarhus University Hospital, 8200 Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Simon Chang
- Department of Endocrinology, Aarhus University Hospital, 8200 Aarhus, Denmark.,Department of Internal Medicine, Lillebaelt Hospital, 6000 Kolding, Denmark
| | - Claus H Gravholt
- Department of Endocrinology, Aarhus University Hospital, 8200 Aarhus, Denmark.,Department of Molecular Medicine, Aarhus University Hospital, 8200 Aarhus, Denmark
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7
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Sampaio F, Ssegonja R, Thiblin I, Nystrand C. A model for evaluating the economic value of prevention programs for illicit use of anabolic androgenic steroids. Health Policy 2021; 125:807-813. [PMID: 33838934 DOI: 10.1016/j.healthpol.2021.03.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/13/2020] [Revised: 12/27/2020] [Accepted: 03/04/2021] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The illicit use of anabolic androgenic steroids (AAS) has become a societal concern. We developed a decision-analytic model for assessing the cost-effectiveness of preventive interventions targeting AAS-use. We used scenario analyses to demonstrate: a) the potential health economic consequences of AAS use in Sweden, and b) the cost-effectiveness of a hypothetical preventive intervention. METHODS A population-based cohort model compared a hypothetical preventive intervention targeting AAS with a 'no intervention' scenario, from a limited societal perspective. The model simulated how a cohort of 18 year-old males transitioned between different states and predicted their health status and complications until the age of 41. Health outcomes were estimated as quality-adjusted life-years (QALY). Costs included intervention costs, drug costs, and costs of complications. RESULTS Total yearly costs related to AAS use amounted to nearly half a million US$, with the largest cost borne by the healthcare sector. Results suggest that AAS prevention could entail large costs and benefits with a mean incremental cost-effectiveness ratio of $550 per QALY, in a scenario where the intervention would decrease the probability of initiating AAS use by 5%. CONCLUSION Results show large AAS related costs, and suggest that the implementation of a preventive intervention could offer good value for money given different effectiveness scenarios. This model can be used to estimate the value of interventions targeting AAS use.
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Affiliation(s)
- Filipa Sampaio
- Department of Public Health and Caring Sciences, Uppsala University, BMC, Husargatan 3, P.O Box 564, 751 22 Uppsala, Sweden.
| | - Richard Ssegonja
- Department of Public Health and Caring Sciences, Uppsala University, BMC, Husargatan 3, P.O Box 564, 751 22 Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Ingemar Thiblin
- Forensic Medicine, Department of Surgical Sciences Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Camilla Nystrand
- Department of Public Health and Caring Sciences, Uppsala University, BMC, Husargatan 3, P.O Box 564, 751 22 Uppsala, Sweden
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8
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Yeo S, Holl K, Peñaherrera N, Wissinger U, Anstee K, Wyn R. Burden of Male Hypogonadism and Major Comorbidities, and the Clinical, Economic, and Humanistic Benefits of Testosterone Therapy: A Narrative Review. CLINICOECONOMICS AND OUTCOMES RESEARCH 2021; 13:31-38. [PMID: 33488103 PMCID: PMC7814241 DOI: 10.2147/ceor.s285434] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2020] [Accepted: 12/03/2020] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Male hypogonadism and major comorbidities such as type 2 diabetes mellitus, obesity, cardiovascular disease, and osteoporosis appear closely connected, forming a vicious cycle that leads to further hypogonadism. This narrative review provides a comprehensive overview of the current literature on the overall burden of male hypogonadism alongside related comorbidities, and how this may be alleviated through testosterone therapy. Observational and clinical data demonstrate that the interaction of male hypogonadism and its related comorbidities is associated with increased mortality, cardiovascular event risk and reduced quality of life. Evidence from epidemiological and registry-based studies shows that this clinical and humanistic burden translates to increased economic burden on health-care systems, through increased physician visits, medical claims, and drug costs. Male hypogonadism can be managed with testosterone therapy, which is intended to normalize testosterone concentrations and thereby reduce both hypogonadism symptoms and risk of comorbidities. Clinical and observational data suggest that in males with hypogonadism, testosterone therapy rapidly and sustainably improves glycemia, reduces risk of progression to diabetes, leads to significantly reduced waist circumference and fat mass, while providing significant positive effects on cardiovascular event risk and bone density. Significant and sustained improvement in patient-reported erectile function, urinary function, and aging male symptoms have also been shown. Economic evaluations have estimated that reduced comorbidity risk following testosterone therapy may lead to cost-savings, with one study estimating yearly inpatient savings of £3732 for treating comorbidities after intervention. A major unmet need exists in the area of male hypogonadism, particularly related to common comorbidities. Options for treatment include testosterone therapy, which has been shown to alleviate the clinical, economic, and humanistic burden associated with these conditions. As the prevalence of male hypogonadism is likely to increase globally, and this condition may be currently underdiagnosed, cost-saving testosterone therapies should be increasingly considered to manage hypogonadism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sandy Yeo
- Real World Evidence, Bayer (South East Asia) Pte Ltd, Singapore
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9
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Hassanabad MF, Fatehi M. Androgen Therapy in Male Patients Suffering from Type 2 Diabetes: A Review of Benefits and Risks. Curr Diabetes Rev 2020; 16:189-199. [PMID: 30073928 DOI: 10.2174/1573399814666180731125724] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2018] [Revised: 07/23/2018] [Accepted: 07/29/2018] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The current estimated numbers of patients with Type 2 Diabetes (T2D) is believed to be close to 10% of the whole populations of many geographical regions, causing serious concerns over the resulting elevated morbidity and mortality as well as the impact on health care systems around the world. In addition to negatively affecting the quality of life, diabetes is associated with cardiovascular and cerebrovascular complications, indicating that appropriate drug therapy should not only deal with metabolic dysfunction but also protect the vascular system, kidney function and skeletal muscle mass from the effects of the epigenetic changes induced by hyperglycaemia. OBJECTIVE To provide an insight into the management of hypogonadism associated with T2D, this review focuses on clinical observations related to androgen therapy in qualified diabetic patients, and discusses the lines of evidence for its benefits and risks. The potential interactions of testosterone with medicines used by patients with T2D will also be discussed. CONCLUSION From recent clinical findings, it became evident that a considerable percentage of patients suffering from T2D manifested low serum testosterone and experienced diminished sexual activity, as well as reduced skeletal muscle mass and lower bone density. Although there are some controversies, Testosterone Replacement Therapy (TRT) for this particular population of patients appears to be beneficial overall only if it is implemented carefully and monitored regularly.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mortaza F Hassanabad
- Alberta Institute of Diabetes and Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Sciences, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Canada
| | - Mohammad Fatehi
- Alberta Institute of Diabetes and Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Canada
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10
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Yassin AA, Nettleship J, Almehmadi Y, Salman M, Saad F. Effects of continuous long-term testosterone therapy (TTh) on anthropometric, endocrine and metabolic parameters for up to 10 years in 115 hypogonadal elderly men: real-life experience from an observational registry study. Andrologia 2016; 48:793-9. [PMID: 26762680 DOI: 10.1111/and.12514] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 10/19/2015] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Subnormal levels of testosterone are associated with significant negative health consequences, with higher risks of all-cause and cardiovascular mortality. The numbers of studies reporting on the benefits of normalisation of testosterone is increasing but longer-term data on (elderly) men receiving testosterone treatment are almost nonexistent. In this single-centre, cumulative, prospective, registry study, 115 hypogonadal men (mean age 59.05 years) received injections with testosterone undecanoate in 12-week intervals for up to 10 years. Waist circumference, body weight and mean BMI dropped progressively with statistical significance versus previous year for 7 years and, respectively, 8 years for weight and body mass index. Similarly, fasting glucose displayed a significant decrease after the first year continuing to decrease thereafter. A decline in HbA1c , from 6.4% to 5.6% (mean <6%), was observed from year 2 on, together with a decrease in the ratio of triglycerides:high-density lipoprotein (HDL), a surrogate marker of insulin resistance, with an increase in HDL levels. The total cholesterol:HDL ratio and non-HDL cholesterol declined significantly. A decrease was also observed in systolic and diastolic blood pressure, with a decrease in levels of the inflammation marker C-reactive protein. No major adverse cardiovascular events were observed throughout the study.
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Affiliation(s)
- A A Yassin
- Institute for Urology and Andrology, Norderstedt, Germany.,Dresden International University, Dresden, Germany.,Gulf Medical University, Ajman, UAE
| | - J Nettleship
- Department of Human Metabolism, University of Sheffield, Sheffield, UK
| | - Y Almehmadi
- Institute for Urology and Andrology, Norderstedt, Germany
| | - M Salman
- Institute for Urology and Andrology, Norderstedt, Germany
| | - F Saad
- Gulf Medical University, Ajman, UAE.,Global Medical Affairs Andrology, Bayer Pharma, Berlin, Germany
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11
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Gooren L. Diagnosing hypogonadism and treating decisions in different parts of the world: shifts in patterns between 2006 and 2015. Aging Male 2016; 19:46-53. [PMID: 26550686 DOI: 10.3109/13685538.2015.1100601] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/21/2023] Open
Abstract
AIM Variations in diagnosing and treating testosterone (T) deficiency between different regions of the world were analyzed in 2006, and repeated in 2010. At present, the changes since 2006 were analyzed. METHODS About 731 physicians were interviewed in Europe, South Africa, Central and South America regarding factors determining: (1) prescription of T or withholding T, (2) factors in the long-term use of T and the role of T formulations therein, (3) awareness of the wider spectrum of action of T (cardiometabolic disease) (4) reimbursement of T and its impact on (continued) use and (5) best strategies for information on T for physicians. RESULTS Total T was a key factor in identifying hypogonadism, but for >80% of physicians, clinical symptoms were weighed during diagnosis. Once diagnosed, >85% received T treatment, but the treatment compliance was problematic. Of these patients, 36% decided not to start or continue the treatment. CONCLUSION More hypogonadal men are treated than before, but ∼20% goes unidentified. Physicians have a greater awareness that T deficiency can be an element in cardiovascular and metabolic disease, but more education of physicians on diagnosis and treatment of hypogonadism are needed. Problems with reimbursement of T are barriers in the prescription of T and its use by patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Louis Gooren
- a VU Medical Center, Department of Internal Medicine, Endocrine Section , Amsterdam , The Netherlands
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12
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Viuff MH, Stochholm K, Uldbjerg N, Nielsen BB, Gravholt CH. Only a minority of sex chromosome abnormalities are detected by a national prenatal screening program for Down syndrome. Hum Reprod 2015; 30:2419-26. [DOI: 10.1093/humrep/dev192] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/26/2015] [Accepted: 07/13/2015] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
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13
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Dean JD, McMahon CG, Guay AT, Morgentaler A, Althof SE, Becher EF, Bivalacqua TJ, Burnett AL, Buvat J, El Meliegy A, Hellstrom WJ, Jannini EA, Maggi M, McCullough A, Torres LO, Zitzmann M. The International Society for Sexual Medicine's Process of Care for the Assessment and Management of Testosterone Deficiency in Adult Men. J Sex Med 2015; 12:1660-86. [DOI: 10.1111/jsm.12952] [Citation(s) in RCA: 99] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
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14
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Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW To examine recently published evidence that may inform the need for population screening of Klinefelter syndrome; by far the most common chromosomal disorder in males, which most often escapes diagnosis throughout the lifespan. RECENT FINDINGS Research regarding the prevalence and characteristics of developmental and learning difficulties in Klinefelter syndrome emphasize the importance of early intervention with likely subsequent psychosocial and other health benefits. Testosterone treatment will always need to be individualized, but there is growing evidence for the benefits of intervention from the time of puberty, and possibly in early childhood. Discussion of fertility options is now essential given the advent of surgical sperm retrieval and intracytoplasmic sperm injection. SUMMARY Despite increasing knowledge of the natural history of the Klinefelter syndrome spectrum, beneficial interventions and when they should occur, most opportunities are missed due to nondiagnosis. Population screening is arguably the only way of ensuring timely detection of individuals with Klinefelter syndrome. The technologies and structures for such a program already exist. This field now requires a pilot program to further define the risks, benefits and psychosocial and ethical dimensions of screening.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amy S Herlihy
- aChildren's Bioethics Centre, Royal Children's Hospital bMurdoch Childrens Research Institute cMelbourne Medical School, Melbourne University, Parkville dAndrology Australia, Prahran eMIMR-PHI Institute fDepartment of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Monash University, Clayton gMonash IVF Group, Richmond, Victoria, Australia
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15
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Carruthers M, Cathcart P, Feneley MR. Evolution of testosterone treatment over 25 years: symptom responses, endocrine profiles and cardiovascular changes. Aging Male 2015. [PMID: 26218766 PMCID: PMC4732450 DOI: 10.3109/13685538.2015.1048218] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Testosterone treatment has evolved rapidly over the past 25 years as new, more effective and convenient methods have become available. This study reports experience with seven different methods, introduced on the market in the UK. AIM To establish the symptom response when testosterone treatment was initiated on the basis of clinical features and symptoms of androgen deficiency, and the resulting endocrine, biochemical and physiological responses. METHODS Of 2693 patients attending the 3 Men's Health Centers - The UK Androgen Study (UKAS), 2247 were treated. Treatments included pellet implants, oral testosterone undecanoate (Testocaps), mesterolone (Proviron), testosterone gel (Testogel), testosterone scrotal cream (Andromen) and scrotal gel (Tostran). RESULTS There was no correlation between initial testosterone level, initial symptom score or the success of treatment as defined by adequate resolution of symptoms. Despite the diverse endocrine patterns produced, the testosterone preparations appear equally safe over prolonged periods, with either no change or improvement of cardiovascular risk factors, especially in lowering cholesterol and diastolic blood pressure. CONCLUSIONS It is suggested that because of excessive reliance on laboratory measures of androgens and undue safety concerns, many men who could benefit from symptom relief, improvement in related clinical conditions and given preventive medical benefits remain untreated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Malcolm Carruthers
- Centre for Men’s HealthLondon,
UK
- Alzheimer's and Ageing Department, Edith Cowan University,
Perth,
WA,
Australia
- Address for correspondence: Malcolm Carruthers,
Centre for Men's Health, 96 Harley Street,
London, W1G 7HY,
UK. E-mail:
| | - Paul Cathcart
- Department of Urology, University College Hospital,
London,
UK
| | - Mark R. Feneley
- Department of Urology, University College Hospital,
London,
UK
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