Who Is at Greatest Risk for Testosterone Deficiency

Are you worried about low testosterone? Many men wonder if their symptoms like fatigue, lagging libido and poor sleep are caused by testosterone deficiency, but they're too embarrassed to bring this problem up in the doctor's office. Certain lifestyle and health factors make low testosterone more likely, so it's important to understand your personal risk. Here are five types of men who are at the greatest risk for testosterone deficiency.

Excess body fat can increase estrogen levels and reduce testosterone. With the prevalence of obesity at over 40% of the US population, it's no surprise that extra pounds are a common risk factor for testosterone deficiency. Fortunately, losing weight can significantly improve both your metabolic health and your testosterone levels.

The most at-risk population for testosterone deficiency is men who are in their forties or older. Testosterone levels naturally decline with age, and sometimes they can decline to abnormal levels. If you're approaching middle age and experiencing symptoms of low testosterone, consider getting your levels tested.

Although less common than age-related testosterone deficiency, there are some genetic disorders that cause low or non-existent levels of testosterone. These disorders are usually present from birth and include Klinefelter's syndrome, which is caused by an extra sex chromosome, and Kallmann syndrome, which prevents the completion of puberty.

Radiation and chemotherapy for cancer save many lives, but these treatments can also interfere with testosterone production in men. Some types of cancers that affect the testes or pituitary gland can also lower testosterone levels. If you're being treated for cancer, ask your oncologist or primary care doctor for a referral to a testosterone replacement therapy physician to help keep your hormones balanced during and after treatment.

Before the vaccine for it was invented, mumps was a very common childhood ailment. However, getting this infection during adolescence or adulthood can lead to a lifelong testosterone deficiency for men. If you were infected with mumps during or after puberty and experience symptoms of low testosterone, consider having your hormone levels tested.

Keep in mind that having a risk factor for testosterone deficiency doesn't mean you are guaranteed to suffer from low testosterone. Many men have normal hormone levels and no symptoms despite having a condition associated with testosterone deficiency. However, it's important for those at the greatest risk to keep an eye on their testosterone levels throughout life.