Andropause in Men: Causes, Effects, and the Importance of Early Awareness for Optimal Health

Andropause is a condition characterized by a decrease in testosterone hormone secretion in men, leading to a decline in physical, sexual, and psychological functions. Andropause typically occurs in men over the age of 50–55; however, symptoms can begin to appear and be felt as early as the age of 40. In some cases, men have been found to experience andropause as early as their 30s. This is linked to factors beyond the unchangeable aspects of aging and genetics, which also influence and accelerate the onset of andropause. These modifiable factors include lifestyle choices such as smoking and alcohol consumption, health conditions and medical history such as obesity, diabetes, hypertension, and high cholesterol, as well as psychological factors like stress. Previous studies have found that early onset of andropause in Indonesian men is also influenced by work-related stress and environmental pollution in the workplace.

Andropause can impact men’s quality of life due to decreased physical abilities and reduced sexual activity. Although the symptoms are not always distinctive, men entering the andropause phase may experience fatigue due to lower energy levels, excessive drowsiness, muscle and joint stiffness, erectile dysfunction, decreased libido, sleep disturbances, mood swings, increased blood pressure, reduced testicle size, difficulty concentrating, and even hair loss. Additionally, andropause can lead to a decrease in the frequency of sexual activity and dissatisfaction in marital relationships, which may cause unhappiness and become a stressor for men due to feelings of guilt toward their partners.

Therefore, it is important for men to be aware of the possible symptoms of andropause early on. By recognizing these signs in advance, they can better adapt to this phase. Moreover, maintaining a healthy lifestyle is essential to reducing the risk of diseases that could accelerate the onset of andropause.