Evaluating the link between testosterone levels and dementia risk

Evaluation of a Causal Association Between Testosterone Levels, Dementia, and Adverse Mental Health Outcomes: A Mendelian Randomization Analysis

M.D. Anderson Cancer Center · NCT04743466

This study is trying to see if lower testosterone levels are linked to a higher risk of developing dementia and mental health issues like anxiety and depression.

Quick facts

Study typeObservational
Enrollment700000 (estimated)
SexAll
SponsorM.D. Anderson Cancer Center (other)
Locations1 site (Houston, Texas)
Trial IDNCT04743466 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This observational study investigates the relationship between testosterone levels and the risk of developing dementia, as well as adverse mental health outcomes such as anxiety and depression. Utilizing a Mendelian randomization design, the study aims to determine if genetically predicted lower testosterone levels correlate with an increased risk of dementia and cognitive decline. Patient records from institutional and national biobanks, including the UK Biobank and Kaiser Permanente Research Bank, will be reviewed to gather relevant data. The findings could provide insights into the long-term effects of androgen deprivation therapy on mental health.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this study are individuals who have participated in institutional or national biobanks and have provided de-identified clinical and genetic data.

Not a fit: Patients who are unable to consent, minors, pregnant women, or prisoners will not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could enhance understanding of how testosterone levels impact dementia risk and mental health, potentially leading to improved treatment strategies.

How similar studies have performed: While the association between testosterone and mental health has been explored, this specific approach using Mendelian randomization is relatively novel and may provide new insights.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Have volunteered to participate in institutional or national biobanks, mainly the UK Biobank and the Kaiser Permanente Research Bank, and those that have previously participated in studies that resulted in de-identified clinical and genetic data being make available on public archives, mainly the database of Genotypes and Phenotypes (dbGaP)
* No special populations (adults unable to consent, individuals not yet adults, pregnant women, or prisoners)

Where this trial is running

Houston, Texas

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.

View on ClinicalTrials.gov →

Conditions: Anxiety Disorder, Depression, Genetic Disorder, Hematopoietic and Lymphoid Cell Neoplasm, Malignant Solid Neoplasm

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.