Comparison of serum androgens and endometrial thickness in obese and non-obese postmenopausal women

Objective: In this study, we investigated whether serum androgen levels and endometrial thickness differed in obese and non-obese women. Material and Methods: Thirtytwo non-obese (BMI <30) and 48 obese (BMI ≥ 30) women were enrolled. Blood samples were analyzed for testosterone, free testosterone, androstenedione, DHEAS, and SHBG, and transvaginal ultrasonography was performed. Results: Obese women had significantly higher free testosterone and endometrial thickness and significantly lower SHBG. Eight of 17 women with endometrial thickness >5 mm had significant pathology. Conclusion: These results suggest that obesity may be a risk factor for endometrial carcinoma and other pathologies in post-menopausal women through an action on androgen concentrations.