June kicks off Men’s Health Awareness Month. It is an annual focus for men of all ages to strive for better health by joining any of the various activities peppering the month. Learning more about the common conditions male populations face and their symptoms is vital to early detection and treatment success. Low T is a common condition men face later in life but often goes untreated due to embarrassment or lack of information. Getting the facts about conditions like low testosterone is the first step in prioritizing men’s health.
What is Low T?
Testosterone is a male hormone that helps develop and maintain masculine features, sex drive, sperm production, and bone health. Testosterone production begins to decrease around age 30 to 40, and lower levels are typical with aging. If levels decrease enough, it can lead to a testosterone deficiency or Low testosterone (Low T). Low T is also referred to as hypogonadism and can cause various symptoms such as:
- Drop in sex drive
- Sexual performance issues
- Lowered sperm count
- Sleep disturbances
- Decrease in muscle size and strength
- Loss in bone mass and density
- Enlarged breasts
- Depresión
About 39% of men aged 45 or older have Low T. Some men don’t experience symptoms, and those that do often believe the changes are due to getting older. Even though treatment isn’t necessary for every patient, every male experiencing symptoms should be evaluated by your doctor. Without treatment, long-term complications can occur. Testosterone deficiency can also be caused by other factors that treatment can reverse.
Men’s Health Month and Driving Research
Men’s Health Awareness Month is rooted in a long history of healthcare avoidance more common in males. Men are less likely to adopt preventative health measures and are more likely to engage in risky behaviors and go longer periods between check-ups. These are a few examples of factors contributing to shorter average life spans of males and being more prone to develop conditions like heart disease and cancer.
Men’s health is a family issue. By taking steps towards better health, you become an example for future generations engrained in healthier living. Get involved today through the many awareness activities taking place this month, and start your own health journey by:
- Eating healthier
- Exercise regularly
- See your doctor for a check-up
If you have Low T, upcoming research studies here at Clinical Pharmacology of Miami may be an option. Volunteering in clinical trials is a great way to celebrate Men’s Health Awareness Month. Participation allows you to learn more about your condition to prioritize your health better while you help advance medicine for future generations. To learn more, call us at (305) 817-2900, or visit our website.
Sources:
https://www.hormone.org/diseases-and-conditions/low-testosterone
