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Insulin sensitivity in relation to fat distribution and plasma adipocytokines among abusers of anabolic androgenic steroids
Author(s) -
Rasmussen Jon Jarløv,
Schou Morten,
Selmer Christian,
Johansen Marie Louise,
Gustafsson Finn,
Frystyk Jan,
Dela Flemming,
Faber Jens,
Kistorp Caroline
Publication year - 2017
Publication title -
clinical endocrinology
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 1.055
H-Index - 147
eISSN - 1365-2265
pISSN - 0300-0664
DOI - 10.1111/cen.13372
Subject(s) - medicine , endocrinology , adiponectin , adipokine , leptin , body mass index , adipose tissue , insulin , insulin resistance , anabolism , obesity
Summary Objective Abuse of anabolic androgenic steroids ( AAS ) is prevalent among young men, but information regarding effects on insulin sensitivity and fat distribution is limited. The objective was to investigate insulin sensitivity in relation to fat distribution and adipocytokines among current and former AAS abusers compared with controls. Design Cross‐sectional study among men involved in recreational strength training. Current and former AAS abusers (n=37 and n=33) and controls (n=30) volunteered from the community. Methods We assessed insulin sensitivity by Matsuda index (oral glucose tolerance test). Using overnight fasting blood samples, adiponectin and leptin were measured. Body composition and fat distribution, including visceral adipose tissue ( VAT ), were assessed by dual energy X‐ray absorptiometry. Results Current and former AAS abusers displayed lower Matsuda index than controls (%‐difference (95% CI ) from controls, −26% (−45; −1) and −39% (−55; −18)). Testosterone was markedly higher among current AAS abusers and subnormal among former AAS abusers compared with controls. Current AAS abusers displayed higher mean VAT than controls (388 (17) vs 293 (12) cm 3 , P <.001) whereas body fat %, adiponectin and leptin concentrations were lower. In contrast, former AAS abusers showed highest leptin concentrations and body fat %. Multivariate linear regressions identified VAT as independent predictor of lower Matsuda index among current AAS abusers compared with controls; while body fat % independently predicted lower Matsuda index among former AAS abusers. Conclusions Both current and former AAS abusers displayed lower insulin sensitivity which could be mediated by higher VAT and total body fat %, respectively.