In a press release, the Endocrine Society notes a new study which shows that "men with borderline testosterone levels have higher rates of depression and depressive symptoms than the general population." The study of 200 adult men between the ages of 22 and 77 had levels of testosterone between 200 and 350 nanograms per deciliter. According to a table based on a 1996 study the average for a 35-44 year old male is 668 ng/dl and declines with age to an average of 376 ng/dl for men 85-100.
In the newer study, the men with borderline low testosterone had depressive symptoms or a diagnosis of depression, and/or use of an antidepressant. Their rates were significantly higher than the general population, 56% of men with borderline low testosterone versus 15-22% among a sample of primary care patients.
The population also had a high prevalence of overweight (39%), obesity (40%) and physical inactivity; other than walking, 51% of the men did not engage in regular exercise. The most common symptoms reported were erectile dysfunction (78%), low libido (69%) and low energy (52%).
This would seem to indicate men with depression should get their testosterone levels checked, especially if they have some of the above symptoms.
We previously discussed bisphenol-A (BPA) exposure and its link to Autism Spectrum as well as its estradiol-like effects which may lower testosterone.
(Score: 4, Insightful) by E_NOENT on Saturday March 14 2015, @09:57AM
"Before You Diagnose Yourself With Depression Or Low Self Esteem, First Make Sure That You Are Not, In Fact, Simply Surrounded By Assholes."
- Wm Gibson (I think)
I'm not in the business... I *am* the business.