Low testosterone risk linked to genetic makeup in men. Testosterone is primarily a male hormone, which is attributed to important physiological functions in men. Low testosterone levels can increase the risk of cardiovascular events, type 2 diabetes, atherosclerosis, osteoporosis, metabolic syndrome, and sarcopenia. Testosterone naturally decreases with age, but this mechanism is still not fully understood.
The researchers looked at data from 14,429 Caucasian men and discovered genetic variants at the sex hormone-binding globulin (SHBG) gene and on the X chromosome associated with an increased risk of low testosterone.
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Lead author Professor Claes Ohlsson from the University of Gothenburg said, “This is the first large-scale study to identify specific genes for low serum testosterone concentrations. It is very interesting that the genetic contribution of the identified genetic variants to testosterone concentrations is substantial.”
Co-senior author Dr. Robin Haring from the University of Greifswald concluded, “The reported associations may now be used in order to better understand the functional background of recently identified disease associations related to low testosterone concentrations in men.”
Other causes of low testosterone in men
Aside from genetic variants, there are other reasons for the testosterone decline in men. Medical conditions is a primary reason why men’s testosterone levels decrease, and examples include autoimmune diseases, chronic liver or kidney disease, chronic obstructive lung disease, genetic causes, heart failure, HIV/AIDS, infections, injury of the testicles, metabolic disorders, obesity, prolactinoma in the pituitary gland, testicular cancer, and type 2 diabetes.
Other causes of low testosterone include alcohol consumption, chemotherapy drugs, corticosteroids, and opioids.
In some cases, the cause of low testosterone remains unknown or there may be more than one reason for a man to experience the drop in testosterone levels.
If you’re concerned with your testosterone levels and you’re an aging male, speak to your doctor about available treatments to see which one is right for you.
Related Reading:
Rheumatoid arthritis risk influenced by low testosterone levels in men
Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) risk is influenced by low testosterone levels in men. Low testosterone levels are seen in both men and women with rheumatoid arthritis, revealing that sex hormones may play a role in the disease. Unfortunately, it is unclear if low testosterone levels are to blame for the onset of rheumatoid arthritis, or it is rheumatoid arthritis that drops the levels of testosterone. Continue reading…
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Low testosterone causes, symptoms, and natural testosterone boosters
When we hear the word testosterone we envision strong, highly masculine men. And yet testosterone is necessary in both men and women – though in different levels. Regardless, testosterone is hailed for promoting vigor, strength, and libido, so when testosterone begins to decline so do other aspects in a man’s life. Continue reading…
Sources:
http://www.eurekalert.org/pub_releases/2011-10/plos-gma100311.php
http://journals.plos.org/plosgenetics/article?id=10.1371/journal.pgen.1002313
http://www.everydayhealth.com/low-testosterone/guide/causes/
Devon Andre has been involved in the health and dietary supplement industry for a number of years. Devon has written extensively for Bel Marra Health. He has a Bachelor of Forensic Science from the University of Windsor, and went on to complete a Juris Doctor from the University of Pittsburgh. Devon is keenly aware of trends and new developments in the area of health and wellness. He embraces an active lifestyle combining diet, exercise and healthy choices. By working to inform readers of the options available to them, he hopes to improve their health and quality of life.
