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UCSD Researchers Examine Effects Of DHEA On Older Adults

UCSD researchers are examining whether restoration of youthful levels of DHEA (dehydroepiandrosterone), a naturally occurring steroid hormone, may offer protection from age-associated health problems in older adults.

Researchers believe DHEA may be related to body composition, muscle strength and balance, bone mineral density, immune function, cardiovascular disease, mood, quality of life and sexual function. Participants will be randomly assigned to either a DHEA group or a sugar pill (placebo) group. For both groups, the supplement or sugar pill is taken once a day.  Researchers hope to enroll 100 men and 100 women who will be followed for one year.

The DAWN (DHEA And Well-Ness) Study, being conducted by the UCSD School of Medicine, Department of Family and Preventive Medicine, is recruiting non-smoking women between the ages of 55 and 84, and non-smoking men between the ages of 70 and 84, who are not currently taking hormones.

Study participants will receive several free medical evaluations including blood pressure, cholesterol levels and bone scans (DEXA). Women in the study will also receive free mammograms and men will be tested for PSA measures.

For information, call Aaryn Greer-Belfer at (858)534-0950.