On October 28, we marked the 25th Chinese Men’s Health Day, with this year’s theme focusing on “High-Quality Population Development and Comprehensive Male Health.” While many people associate “menopause” exclusively with women, it’s crucial to recognize that men also experience a similar phase, often referred to as male menopause, although its symptoms are frequently overlooked.
In the urology department at the First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, a 65-year-old male patient sought advice due to various physical discomforts.
Dr. Luo Shengjun, a urologist at Chongqing Medical University, explained, “Starting around age 30, men’s testosterone levels typically begin to decline by about 1% to 2% each year. As they reach their 50s or 60s, this decline becomes much more pronounced, leading to what we call male menopause.”
According to experts, the majority of men may begin experiencing menopause symptoms between the ages of 40 and 55. However, some might start as early as 35, while others may not notice symptoms until they are 65. It’s important to note that not all men will experience clinical symptoms during this phase; studies show that approximately 30% to 40% of middle-aged and older men report varying degrees of menopausal symptoms.
Dr. Xiao Qian, the head physician of the Geriatrics Department at the same hospital, further elaborated, “This condition affects multiple bodily systems. For example, patients might experience emotional changes, such as anxiety, depression, and insomnia, as well as gastrointestinal issues, like digestive disturbances. Cardiovascular symptoms, including chest tightness and palpitations, and signs of autonomic nervous system dysfunction, such as sweating and hot flashes, may also arise. Overall, it reflects a decline in the function of various organs, which can be interpreted as a manifestation of aging.”
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