What are causes of low testosterone in men?
The hormone testosterone regulates the growth and development of primary and secondary sexual characteristics in men. Testosterone deficiency (TD) is congenital (if it is present at birth) or acquired (if it develops later).EffectsAn insufficient level of testosterone in the bloodstream causes abnormalities in bone and muscle development, sparse facial hair, underdeveloped genitalia, infertility and virility problems.Acquired TD TypesDisease, trauma or damage to the testicles, the hypothalamus or the pituitary gland can cause acquired testosterone deficiency. Doctors classify the condition according to the location of the problem–primary if the disruption is in the testicles, secondary if it is in the pituitary gland or tertiary if it is in the hypothalamus.Acquired TD FactorsScientists have linked obesity, diabetes and hypertension to low testosterone levels caused by acquired TD. These factors may accentuate the root cause: a problem in the testicles, hypothalamus or pituitary.Anorc
