In the last 100 years, life expectancy for men has increased by 65 percent, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
In 1900, men lived until about age 46Trusted Source. By 2014, that age jumped to 76Trusted Source. There’s no question that men are redefining what it means to be 50, 60, and 70 years old or older.
Regular exercise, a healthy diet, and adequate rest all help maintain energy and vitality in men over 50. But men are also turning to one of the most advanced aging solutions available. Over the last decade, testosterone use among middle-aged and senior men has become popular.
What is testosterone?
Testosterone is the hormone responsible for the development of male external genitalia and secondary sexual characteristics. It’s produced by the testicles. Testosterone is important for maintaining:
- muscle bulk
- bone density
- red blood cells
- sexual and reproductive function
Testosterone also contributes to vitality and well-being.
As men age, their bodies gradually produce less testosterone. This natural decline starts around age 30 and continues throughout the rest of a man’s life.
Male hypogonadism
Some men have a testosterone deficiency called male hypogonadism. This is a condition in which the body doesn’t produce enough testosterone. It may be caused by problems in the:
- testicles
- hypothalamus
- pituitary gland
Men at risk for this condition include those who have had an injury to the testicles or have HIV/AIDS. If you’ve gone through chemotherapy or radiation therapy, or had undescended testicles as an infant you are also considered at risk for hypogonadism.
Symptoms of male hypogonadism in adulthood include:
- erectile dysfunction
- decrease in muscle mass
- infertility
- loss of bone mass (osteoporosis)
- decrease in beard and body hair growth
- development of breast tissue
- fatigue
- difficulty concentrating
- decreased sex drive
