Researchers from the University of Western Australia Medical School, Australia
The male hormone testosterone typically remains steady until around the age of 70, after which it starts to decline.
When testosterone levels decrease, it can lead to physical weakness, fatigue, sexual dysfunction, and muscle mass loss. It’s also associated with an increased risk of conditions like diabetes and dementia.
However, the decline in testosterone isn’t solely related to age; it’s also connected to lifestyle habits and even marital relationships.
A research team led by Professor Bu Yaafar, an endocrinologist at the University of Western Australia, has announced a link between testosterone decline and obesity, hypertension, diabetes, and marital relationships. HealthDay News reported this on the 30th of the month.
The study analyzed data from 11 research papers involving a total of 25,000 men from Australia, Europe, and North America.
The research team measured participants’ testosterone levels over an extended period using mass analysis methods.
Overall, younger men had higher testosterone levels than older men. However, the impact of age on testosterone decline wasn’t very significant.
After age 70, the decline in testosterone was found to be associated with various factors, including obesity, smoking, decreased physical activity, hypertension, heart disease, cancer, diabetes, and marital relationships.
Notably, there was a relatively strong link between obesity and testosterone decline.
Even older men who took medication for hypercholesterolemia to lower their cholesterol levels had lower testosterone levels.
Marriage and long-term marital relationships were also found to have a negative impact on testosterone levels. The research team explained that married men who carry family responsibilities may experience higher stress levels, leading to a decrease in testosterone.
The research team pointed out the overarching message from the study’s results is that a wide range of sociodemographic, medical, and lifestyle factors can influence men’s testosterone levels.
Dr. Robert Eckel, a past president of the American Heart Association, highlighted that while the reasons for testosterone decrease are diverse, two significant factors are luteinizing hormone (LH) and sex hormone-binding globulin (SHBG). This protein transports testosterone throughout the body.
Whether due to health issues or aging, if either LH or SHBG decreases testosterone declines. He recommended that older individuals discuss with their doctors whether testosterone supplementation is appropriate and helpful in response to testosterone decline.
Dr. Eckel emphasized that testosterone replacement therapy should only be considered for clear medical reasons and should constantly be monitored medically.
The results of this study were published in the latest issue of the Annals of Internal Medicine, a journal of the American College of Physicians.
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