During Women's Month, we’re also shining a light on men’s health—a topic that is often neglected by many men themselves. The truth is that stress, poor nutrition, and the lack of healthy habits significantly impact male hormonal health. We spoke with Dr. Maya Khristozova, an endocrinologist at VITA Hospital, who debunks the most common myths surrounding men’s hormonal health.
What are the most common endocrine disorders in men and what symptoms should they look out for?
Contrary to popular belief, men also suffer from a variety of endocrine disorders. The most common include diabetes, thyroid diseases, and testosterone deficiency, which is often associated with so-called "andropause"—but not exclusively. Men may also develop adrenal gland disorders, pituitary adenomas, osteoporosis, and deficiencies in minerals and vitamins.
In many cases, endocrine conditions in men present with atypical symptoms and are often overlooked, partly due to the widespread myth that such disorders affect only women. As a result, they’re frequently diagnosed at more advanced stages when complications have already occurred.
That’s why regular preventive check-ups—including visits to an endocrinologist—are crucial for early detection, prevention, and timely treatment of endocrine diseases.
What is testosterone deficiency, and how does it impact male health?
Testosterone is the primary male sex hormone. It regulates sexual differentiation, the development of male sexual characteristics, spermatogenesis, and fertility. Although mainly linked to sexual function, testosterone also plays an important role in women—albeit in much smaller amounts.
Low testosterone in men affects more than just sexual performance. In addition to reduced libido, erectile dysfunction, and impaired spermatogenesis, testosterone deficiency also affects:Metabolism – leading to increased fat accumulation, reduced muscle mass, and lower bone density. Persistent deficiency may result in osteoporosis.
Mental health and cognitive function
Immune system regulation
How do stress, lifestyle, nutrition, and age affect the endocrine system?
Stress, diet, and lifestyle are all exogenous yet modifiable factors that impact overall health and, in particular, the endocrine system.
Chronic stress, insufficient sleep, sedentary lifestyle, smoking, excessive alcohol or drug use, and unsupervised use of testosterone-based supplements can all contribute to testosterone deficiency.
With age, testicular function gradually declines. Testosterone levels begin to decrease slowly after the age of 30–35. This age-related drop may lead to symptoms similar to female menopause—though more gradual—commonly referred to as "andropause."
How do lack of physical activity and excess weight affect male endocrine health?
Low physical activity and unhealthy eating are major risk factors that increase the likelihood of cardiovascular and endocrine disorders—especially obesity and diabetes.
Increased body fat in men leads to reduced testosterone levels, as fat tissue promotes the conversion of testosterone into estrogen (female sex hormones).
To counter this, men should engage in regular physical activity—ideally 4 to 5 times per week for at least 30 minutes. Combined with a healthy diet, this helps prevent weight gain and its related consequences: insulin resistance, prediabetes, and diabetes. Regular exercise also lowers the risk of depression, anxiety, and emotional eating—creating a protective cycle that supports hormonal balance.
What are the most common myths and misconceptions about male hormonal health?
Myth #1: Endocrine disorders affect only women.
False. Endocrine diseases affect both men and women almost equally. Men are less frequently diagnosed largely because they’re less likely to see a doctor—especially for preventive care. Additionally, endocrine disorders in men often have subtle early symptoms, which delays diagnosis.
Myth #2: Testosterone is only important for sexual function.
While testosterone is crucial for male sexuality, it also affects muscle mass, bone density, hemoglobin levels, mood, and sleep. Low testosterone can lead to not only erectile dysfunction but also depression, fatigue, anemia, osteoporosis, and other health problems.
Myth #3: Only older men can have low testosterone.
Low testosterone can occur at any age due to various causes—acute or chronic illness, certain medications, anabolic steroid abuse, chemotherapy, poor lifestyle choices, stress, smoking, and alcohol use.
What are the risks of self-prescribing hormone supplements containing testosterone?
There are serious health risks associated with the unsupervised use of testosterone products. Abuse of anabolic steroids—synthetic derivatives of testosterone—is common. Side effects may include:
- Hair loss
- Prostate enlargement
- Acne
- Suppressed natural testosterone production
- Testicular atrophy, often leading to infertility and impotence
- Gynecomastia (breast enlargement in men), which is often irreversible and requires surgery
In more severe cases, anabolic steroid use may lead to:
-Heart attack
- High blood pressure
- Increased blood clotting
- Liver damage or tumors
- Addiction and withdrawal symptoms such as anxiety, depression, insomnia, and reduced libido
For all these reasons, testosterone therapy—even when medically approved—should be strictly monitored by a healthcare professional, carefully weighing benefits and risks.
What kind of preventive regimen do you recommend for maintaining good hormonal health?
First and foremost, I recommend a balanced diet and regular physical activity to maintain a healthy body weight, along with consistent nighttime sleep of at least 7 hours. It’s also important to reduce risk factors such as stress, smoking, and the use of alcohol, drugs, and anabolic steroids.
Last but not least, I urge men not to be afraid of regular preventive check-ups—not only with endocrinologists, but with general practitioners and other specialists as needed. Early detection is key to avoiding complications and initiating timely treatment.
To book a consultation with Dr. Maya Khristozova, click here or call 02 45 22 000.
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