Mens Health

Low testosterone, a form of hypogonadism, occurs when the body fails to produce an adequate supply of this hormone. This condition is more prevalent as men age, occurring in about 20 percent of men over 60 years of age and increasing to as much as 50 percent in men over 80 years of age. While testosterone is thought of as the male hormone, it is necessary for female functioning as well, and women may also suffer from low testosterone.

Hair loss (alopecia) affects many men. It can be the result of aging, genetic predisposition, medication, or an underlying medical condition. Men can lose their hair in patterned areas or patches, or their hair can thin all over. Depending on what causes it, the condition can be temporary or permanent.

Erectile dysfunction (ED), refers to the consistent inability to achieve or maintain an erection. For an erection to occur, a specific sequence of event needs to take place, allowing blood to enter the penis while restricting the outflow of blood. The pressure created by this "trapped" blood is what maintains an erection. If there is a consistent breakdown in any steps in the sequence, erectile dysfunction is the result. Erectile dysfunction may occur at any age, however, the occurrence of ED is increasingly common as a man ages. However, it should not be considered a natural part of aging.

Prostatitis is an inflammation of the prostate gland commonly resulting in pain and swelling. The prostate is a reproductive gland located just below the bladder and in front of the rectum. The condition of prostatitis can also cause other uncomfortable urinary symptoms which can be chronic or acute, and flare-up irregularly.

Prostate cancer is one of the most common types of cancer in men. This disease affects the prostate, the gland located under the bladder and in front of the rectum. This gland helps produce semen and allows for sperm to move more effectively, along with several other functions. The cancer cells develop in the prostate and invade the healthy tissues and multiply at a rate much faster than regular cells.

Prostate cancer is one of the most common types of cancer in men. It affects the prostate, the gland located under the bladder and in front of the rectum that helps produce semen and allows sperm to move more effectively, among other functions. Although prostate cancer can be life-threatening, it often spreads slowly and requires only minimal treatment. When confined to the prostate gland, it can usually be treated effectively, making early detection crucial.

Sleep apnea is a condition in which breathing is briefly and repeatedly interrupted during sleep. More than 18 million adults suffer from sleep apnea in the United States. The condition can lead to heart disease, stroke, mood disturbances, and more.

Vitamin D is an important nutrient that aids in overall health by keeping bones strong and healthy. The body requires vitamin D to absorb calcium and phosphorous, which are crucial in building and maintaining strong bones and teeth. Although some studies seem to indicate that adequate levels of vitamin D can strengthen the immune system and protect against various health conditions, including diabetes, kidney disease, heart disease and high blood pressure, there is no definitive data to support that conclusion.