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The Curious Bag
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Although found in both men and women, the hormone testosterone is much more abundant and necessary in men. The testes produce testosterone, which plays a key role in puberty for boys.
The Facts
Testosterone in men controls muscle mass, sperm production, sex drive, bone density and fat distribution, and often accounts for aggressive behavior.
Effects
As reported by Supinda Bunyavanich, M.D., of ABC News, too little testosterone can lead to lowered bone density and boost susceptibility to osteoporosis, lessened sexual function, loss of muscle strength and mass, fatigue, and memory loss.
Boys
Very young boys have extremely low testosterone levels and healthy teenage boys have extremely high testosterone levels.
Men
Men ages 20 to 39 typically have higher testosterone levels, often as high as 1000 nanograms per deciliter (ng/dL). According to Edward Lichten, M.D., up to 50 percent of men over age 40 have decreased testosterone levels, well below the normal of 450 ng/dL.
Testing
If a man has symptoms indicating that his testosterone might not be at a healthy level, the doctor may perform a blood test to determine testosterone levels.
Treatment
Lichten says treatment for low testosterone levels is limited to epidermal patch, gel or injections under doctor's direction, to avoid liver toxicity.
Source:
ABC News Health: Low Testosterone Could Kill You
US Doctor: Testosterone Information
More Information:
National Institutes of Health: Frequently Asked Questions About Testosterone and the IOM Report
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