Scientists from The University of Manchester have discovered how to predict worsening frailty in men over the age of 40. Dr Agnieszka Swiecicka, a Clinical Research Fellow says frailty in men is less likely to get worse in 4 years if they have higher levels of the anabolic hormones, vitamin D, insulin–like growth factor–1 (IGF–1) and its binding protein 3 (IGFBP3).

Also linked to a lower likelihood of frailty getting worse is higher levels of the hormone DHEA–S, but only in men older than 70, she found.

The research, published in the Journal of Clinical Endocrinology and Metabolism, could allow early identification of men who are at high risk of developing or worsening frailty.

“The discovery that certain anabolic hormones can help predict changes in frailty could have important implications in terms the development of new treatments and prevention strategies. It is important to stress that clinical trials will be required to find out if supplementing these hormones to middle aged and elderly men could prevent the development of frailty,” Dr Swiecicka said.

The study examined the relationship between certain anabolic hormone levels and changes in frailty status over 4 years among men who took part in the European Male Aging Study. With an increasingly ageing populating, this study helps with understanding what may cause people to develop frailty, with a view to being able to identify individuals who may benefit from preventive strategies.