Low Levels of Testosterone as a Risk Factor of Hip Fractures in Men Above the Age of Sixty-Five - A Case Series Study

Abstract

Hip fractures are a major cause of morbidity and mortality in elderly men. Various factors contribute to hip fractures, including osteoporosis, falls, and metabolic imbalances. Recent research suggests that hormonal deficiencies, particularly low testosterone levels, may play a crucial role in bone health and fracture risk. The aim of this study is to evaluate the correlation between low testosterone levels and hip fractures in men above the age of sixty-five. This case series study was conducted at the University Clinic for Surgical Diseases ‘St. Naum Ohridski – Skopje’ in North Macedonia. The study included 10 male patients above 65 years of age who presented with hip fractures, while the control group comprised 10 randomly selected age- and race-matched men without fractures. Testosterone and Vitamin D levels were measured in both groups. The average testosterone levels in the fracture group were 181.97 ng/dl, whereas in the control group, they were 360.006 ng/dl. Average Vitamin D levels in the fracture group were 9.185 ng/ml, compared to 21.232 ng/ml in the control group. These findings suggest that low levels of testosterone and Vitamin D may be significant risk factors for hip fractures in men over 65 years old. Further research is required to establish definitive prevention protocols incorporating hormonal assessments for elderly males at risk of fractures.