Year: 2006
Type: article
Abstract: As men get older, there is a decline in functioning of many biological\nsystems; the endocrine systems share such changes in hormone levels.\nAgeing in men is accompanied by progressive, but individually variable\ndecline in serum testosterone production in healthy men especially in\nmen over 60 years of age. Androgens determine the differentiation of\nmale internal and external genitalia as well as the development and\nmaintain ace of male secondary sex characteristics and male\nreproductive function. They have important metabolic effects on\nprotein, carbohydrate and fat metabolism and contribute to the\ndetermination of muscle mass and strength and also affect behavior and\ncognition. In ageing men, the serum androgen levels are affected due to\nseveral factors such as , circadian rhythmicity, heredity, body mass,\ndiet, stress, life style, smoking, alcohol, and exercise. The decreased\nlevels androgen may lead to senile osteroporosis, hypogonadism,\ndecreased libido and brain functions. The incidence of cognitive\ndisorders such as dementia and Alzheimer s disease is also high in\ntestosterone deficient adults. The relationship between endogenous\nplasma testosterone levels, visual-spatial orientation, depression and\nbrain function plays a vital role while treating aged males with\ncognitive disorders associated with decline in testosterone levels. The\npresent paper highlights various aspects of ageing associated decline\nin androgen levels, cognitive function and usefulness and risk of\nandrogen replacement therapy in aged males.
Authors: Hanumanthachar Joshi, Milind Parle
Language: English
Subfield: Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism
Field: Medicine
Domain: Health Sciences
Open Access status: green
OpenAlex ID: W2235979696