Relationship of Body Composition with Cortisol and Dehydroepiandrosterone-Sulfate Levels in Korean Men and Women

ObjectivesGlucocorticoids, mediated by the activation of the HPA axis, affect metabolic responses, insulin resistance, lipolysis and body fat distribution. Dehydroepiandrosterone-sulfate (DHEA-S) is a hormone produced by the adrenal glands and a precursor of sex hormones. The balance and interaction between cortisol and DHEA-S can significantly affect body composition. This study aimed to investigate the relationship between cortisol and DHEA-S levels, cortisol/DHEA-S ratio, and body composition in Korean men and women. MethodsIn total, 802 adults participated in this study between January 2018 and March 2023. Socio-demographic data and lifestyle factors were assessed using questionnaires. Body composition, clinical blood pressure, and metabolic variables, including cortisol and DHEA-S levels, were assessed. Cortisol and DHEA-S scores were analyzed in relation to height, body weight(BW), body mass index(BMI) and waist circumference(WC) according to age and sex. ResultsParticipants had a mean age of 52.6{+/-}11.7 years. Cortisol levels adjusted for age and gender were negatively correlated with BW, WC and BMI. This result was more significant in women than in men. DHEA-S levels were positively correlated with height, BW and WC after adjusting for age. The cortisol/DHEA-S ratio was associated with lower height and BW after adjusting for gender. Logistic regression for cortisol, DHEA-S and the cortisol/DHEA-S ratio in the prediction of central obesity was significant for men after adjusting for age and BMI. ConclusionsElevated cortisol concentrations are associated with lower adiposity. DHEA-S levels were positively correlated with height and body mass. The prediction of central obesity was associated with cortisol and the cortisol/DHEA-S ratio in men and negatively associated with DHEA-S.