Obesity’s role in secondary male hypogonadism: a review of pathophysiology and management issues

Abstract

Obesity and male hypogonadism are both associated with one another. Moreover, male hypogonadism can serve as a risk factor for obesity while obesity can serve as a risk factor for male hypogonadism. There has been little research regarding obesity and its reduction on that of gonadal function. Lifestyle factors as well as other factors have been attributed to the development of obesity which can induce gonadal dysfunction. Therefore, the treatment of male hypogonadism is of great interest for both providers and patients. The future of hypogonadism therapy may exist with the development of aromatase inhibitors that can minimize undesired effects and allow the benefits of androgens. Testosterone treatment can lead to compromised fertility and addiction. Aromatase allows for the peripheral conversion of androgens into estrogens resulting in the inhibition of gonadotropin production. Therefore, aromatase inhibitors can be used instead to increase gonadotropin secretion. There is growing evidence that aromatase inhibitors can improve the fertility and raise testosterone levels.