Both men and women experience menopause, but menopause in women is easier to identify due to the presence of menopausal symptoms such as cessation of menstruation. On the other hand, male menopause is more difficult to detect at first. According to Dr. Hsu Fu-Shun, Chief of Urology Department at Taipei Municipal Yangming Hospital, testosterone, known as “androgen,” plays a vital role in male physiological functions, including sperm production, libido, erectile function, muscle mass, bone density, emotional stability, body fat regulation, and heart health. As men age, testosterone gradually decreases, leading to decreased vitality, increased fatigue, poor memory, decreased sexual function, and mood swings.

Dr. Hsu gave an example of a 52-year-old bank manager who recently experienced difficulty concentrating at work, becoming easily irritable during meetings, feeling sleepy while watching TV after work, and noticing a decrease in libido and an increase in waist circumference. With the support of his family, he sought medical consultation from the urology department. After evaluation and blood tests, it was confirmed that his testosterone concentration was significantly low at 285ng/dL, indicating clear symptoms of male menopause. However, with proper treatment, his condition has improved.

Dr. Hsu explains that while women have the “cessation of menstruation” as a clear indicator of menopause, male vitality and sexual function depend on testosterone, which gradually declines after the age of 30. By the age of 50, approximately 38% of men already have testosterone levels below the normal range.

Furthermore, Dr. Hsu emphasizes that male menopause not only affects sexual desire and can lead to erectile dysfunction but is also causally related to chronic conditions such as metabolic syndrome. Studies have shown that the proportion of low testosterone in obese individuals, those with type 2 diabetes, hypertension, hyperlipidemia, and osteoporosis, is as high as 40-52%, significantly higher than those without chronic diseases. Moreover, long-term studies conducted abroad have demonstrated that long-term testosterone supplementation can lower overall mortality, as well as the incidence of cardiovascular disease and prostate cancer in men.

In terms of self-identification, Dr. Hsu suggests the following 10 points to help men facing the so-called midlife crisis. He advises seeking diagnosis and evaluation from specialized urologists. If testosterone deficiency is confirmed, there are convenient gel supplements available to restore testosterone levels to normal. In daily life, adopting a low-salt, low-oil diet and engaging in aerobic exercise three times a week can help maintain overall well-being.

Source: Neowave