Tanya Dutt

3 Lesser Known Risks Related To Diabetes In Men

<span><a href="https://www.healthandme.com/health/diabetes">Diabetes</a></span> is considered a global health crisis with over a million people are suffering from it worldwide, and the complications it causes affect men in unique ways. According to the American Diabetes Association, 13.8 percent to 17 percent of male Americans have diabetes. While cardiovascular diseases and kidney issues are common, several other risks that men with diabetes face are relatively understated, such as <span><a href="https://www.healthandme.com/health/erectile-dysfunction">erectile dysfunction</a></span>, <span>low testosterone</span> levels, and an increased risk to the cardiovascular system. 

Diabetes is a chronic condition that interferes with the body's ability to regulate blood sugar levels. Although it affects both men and women, men are more vulnerable to complications due to physiological and behavioral factors. According to studies published in the Journal of Epidemiology &amp; Community Health, men with diabetes have a higher risk of cardiovascular disease, kidney complications, and vision problems than women, regardless of the duration of the condition.

This is one major risk factor, fat storage around the midsection, which puts the man at higher risks of developing type 2 diabetes. Combined with a delay in consulting a doctor, this situation usually leads to undiagnosed or poorly managed diabetes and worsens the risks. 

<h2>Lesser Known Risks of <span rel="noindex">Diabetes in Men</span></h2>

Erectile dysfunction, or the inability to achieve or maintain an erection, is one of the most common yet overlooked complications of diabetes in men. Diabetes impairs blood flow and damages nerves, both essential for healthy sexual function. 

<span>High blood sugar</span> levels damage blood vessels and nerves, reducing blood flow to the genital area.

Hypertension, obesity, and kidney disease are associated with diabetes, which makes a patient's risk even greater.

A 2017 meta-analysis of 145 studies found that over 50% of men with diabetes experience ED, whether it is type 1 or type 2 diabetes. While stress and lifestyle factors such as smoking can play a role, diabetes really amplifies the condition.

Early intervention is key. It can be managed with regular check-ups, optimal blood sugar levels, and lifestyle changes such as quitting smoking and exercising. 

Low testosterone levels are common in diabetic men. This can have a serious impact on the general well-being of men. Testosterone is an essential hormone that maintains muscle mass, regulates mood, increases energy, and ensures sexual health.

Diabetes alters the production of hormones and, subsequently, the production of testosterone reduces. Obesity is associated with diabetes; thus, a man with obesity is also more likely to have reduced testosterone. 

Low Testosterone Symptoms in Men with Diabetes:

<ul><li>Reduces muscle mass</li><li>Causing fatigue and mood changes</li><li>Loss of libido and erectile dysfunction</li></ul>

Low testosterone can also cause low sperm count, which makes it hard to conceive. It also increases the risk of Peyronie's disease, which is painful penile curvature that complicates sexual intercourse. 

Medical consultation is essential for diagnosis and management. Hormone replacement therapy, combined with lifestyle modifications, can restore hormonal balance and alleviate symptoms.

Also Read: <a href="https://www.healthandme.com/health-wellness/explained-5-types-of-new-diabetes-diagnosis-and-treatment-article-151115185" data-type="tilCustomLink" target="_blank">Explained: 5 Types Of 'New' Diabetes- Diagnosis And Treatment</a> 

<h2>3. Increased Cardiovascular Risks</h2>

Cardiovascular diseases are one of the most dangerous complications for men with diabetes. High blood sugar levels damage blood vessels and increase the risk of heart attacks, strokes, and other cardiovascular problems. 

Men tend to store visceral fat around the abdomen, which contributes to insulin resistance and inflammation, escalating cardiovascular risks. Men often ignore early warning signs, leading to prolonged periods of unmanaged diabetes.

Uncontrolled diabetes increases cholesterol levels and blood pressure, compounding the risk of life-threatening events like strokes and heart attacks. 

Routine health screenings, blood sugar monitoring, and a heart-healthy diet are critical preventive measures. Men over 45 who are overweight should prioritize regular cardiovascular check-ups to mitigate these risks.

Early detection and proactive care may limit the progression of complications. How male with diabetes can prevent himself from complications is as follows:

Also known as regular blood sugar, testosterone levels, and cardiac health checks.

Quit smoking, encourage exercise, and eat well-balanced diets.

Consult a medical care provider for individualized, detailed treatment plans

<h2>Prevention of Diabetes Symptoms in Men</h2>

Prevention of diabetes is initiated with awareness of its risk factors and conscious lifestyle choices. Although the type 1 diabetes is diagnosed typically in childhood, in most people, type 2 diabetes can be avoided. Prevention strategies include the following: 

- Obesity is one of the major risk factors for type 2 diabetes. 

- An exercise habit can enhance sensitivity to insulin and keep an overall healthy lifestyle.

- Focus on whole grains, lean proteins, and fresh produce, avoiding processed foods and added sugars.

Diabetes is a complex condition, but understanding its unique risks for men can pave the way for better management and prevention. From erectile dysfunction and low testosterone to heightened cardiovascular risks, addressing these issues requires a multi-faceted approach. 

<a href="https://doi.org/10.1136/jech-2023-221759" data-type="tilCustomLink" target="_blank" rel="noopener nofollow noreferrer" rel= "noopener nofollow noreferrer" target= "_blank">Sex differences in risk of incident microvascular and macrovascular complications</a>. Journal of Epidemiology and Community Health. 2024

<a href="http://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s00125-011-2313-3/fulltext.html" data-type="tilCustomLink" target="_blank" rel="noopener nofollow noreferrer" rel= "noopener nofollow noreferrer" target= "_blank">Do men develop type 2 diabetes at lower body mass indices than women? </a>Diabetologia. 2011

<a href="http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/j.1467-789X.2008.00529.x/abstract" data-type="tilCustomLink" target="_blank" rel="noopener nofollow noreferrer" rel= "noopener nofollow noreferrer" target= "_blank">Sex differences in obesity and the regulation of energy homeostasis</a>. Obesity Reviews. 2009

Health Conditions A-Z

health

diabetes

high blood sugar

diabetes in men

erectile dysfunction

low testosterone

cardiovascular risk

diabetes complications

men’s health

managing diabetes

Mens health

To Live Long, Focus On Your Fitness Than Your Weight; Finds Study

These Foods Can Mimic The Effects of Ozempic

Extreme Energy To Irritable Mood: What To Know About Manic Episodes

Health & Wellness

10 Tips To Help Muscle Recovery

6-6-6 Walking Routine Can Help You Stay Fit

10 Breathing Exercises To Try When You’re Feeling Anxious

10 Ways To Beat Morning Fatigue

10 Type Of Squats You Can Do For Weight Loss

Soaked vs. Roasted Chickpeas: Which One is Healthier?

10 Ways For Busy People To Stay Active

10 High-Calorie Foods to Watch Out For At Gatherings

10 Brain Exercises to Improve Your Focus and Memory

Creative Ways to Complete Your 10,000 Steps Indoors

10 Best Carb Choices for Managing Type 2 Diabetes

10 White Foods to Avoid for Better Weight Loss Results

10 Delicious Mediterranean Diet Dinners: Low-Carb and High-Protein Options

Healthy and Protein-Packed Late-Night Snacks to Satisfy Your Cravings

10 Negative Habits That Drain Your Mind’s Power

10 Brain-Boosting Activities to Sharpen Your Mind

10 Protein-Rich Breakfast Dishes To Try

10 Signs Your Heart Is Healthy

10 Foods To Improve Your Brain Health

10 Foods That Boost Your Metabolism

10 Exercise To Improve Grip Strength

10 Staple Foods To Make Eating Healthy Easier

10 Foods You Should Eat If You Are Weight-Training

10 Basics Rules Of Weight Training

10 Ways To Deal With Winter Dry Skin

Workout Week: 10 Back Exercises To Do At Gym

10 Healthy Chicken Recipes For Winter

10 Morning Habits That Can Make You Sick

10 Superfood To Help You Build Immunity

10 Cardio Exercises To Lose Belly Fat

10 Benefits Of Morning Runs

10 Intermittent Fasting Mistakes People Make

10 Toxic Morning Habits To Quit

10 Natural Ways To You Deal With Winter Dryness

10 Reasons Why Pickles Are Good For Winters

10 Healthy Custard Apple Recipes

10 Fun Activities To Build Your Kid’s Strength

10 Benefits Of Fenugreek Leaves

10 Exercises To Target Your Glutes

10 Dairy Alternative For Lactose Intolerant People

Diabetes is considered a global health crisis with over a million people are suffering from it worldwide, and the complications it causes affect men in unique ways. According to the American Diabetes Association, 13.8 percent to 17 percent of male Americans have diabetes. While cardiovascular diseases and kidney issues are common, several other risks that men with diabetes face are relatively understated, such as erectile dysfunction, low testosterone levels, and an increased risk to the cardiovascular system. Diabetes is a chronic condition that interferes with the body's ability to regulate blood sugar levels. Although it affects both men and women, men are more vulnerable to complications due to physiological and behavioral factors. According to studies published in the Journal of Epidemiology & Community Health, men with diabetes have a higher risk of cardiovascular disease, kidney complications, and vision problems than women, regardless of the duration of the condition.This is one major risk factor, fat storage around the midsection, which puts the man at higher risks of developing type 2 diabetes. Combined with a delay in consulting a doctor, this situation usually leads to undiagnosed or poorly managed diabetes and worsens the risks. Lesser Known Risks of Diabetes in Men1. Erectile Dysfunction (ED)Erectile dysfunction, or the inability to achieve or maintain an erection, is one of the most common yet overlooked complications of diabetes in men. Diabetes impairs blood flow and damages nerves, both essential for healthy sexual function. High blood sugar levels damage blood vessels and nerves, reducing blood flow to the genital area.Hypertension, obesity, and kidney disease are associated with diabetes, which makes a patient's risk even greater.A 2017 meta-analysis of 145 studies found that over 50% of men with diabetes experience ED, whether it is type 1 or type 2 diabetes. While stress and lifestyle factors such as smoking can play a role, diabetes really amplifies the condition.Early intervention is key. It can be managed with regular check-ups, optimal blood sugar levels, and lifestyle changes such as quitting smoking and exercising. 2. Low Testosterone LevelsLow testosterone levels are common in diabetic men. This can have a serious impact on the general well-being of men. Testosterone is an essential hormone that maintains muscle mass, regulates mood, increases energy, and ensures sexual health.Diabetes alters the production of hormones and, subsequently, the production of testosterone reduces. Obesity is associated with diabetes; thus, a man with obesity is also more likely to have reduced testosterone. Low Testosterone Symptoms in Men with Diabetes:Reduces muscle massCausing fatigue and mood changesLoss of libido and erectile dysfunctionLow testosterone can also cause low sperm count, which makes it hard to conceive. It also increases the risk of Peyronie's disease, which is painful penile curvature that complicates sexual intercourse. Medical consultation is essential for diagnosis and management. Hormone replacement therapy, combined with lifestyle modifications, can restore hormonal balance and alleviate symptoms.Also Read: Explained: 5 Types Of 'New' Diabetes- Diagnosis And Treatment 3. Increased Cardiovascular RisksCardiovascular diseases are one of the most dangerous complications for men with diabetes. High blood sugar levels damage blood vessels and increase the risk of heart attacks, strokes, and other cardiovascular problems. Men tend to store visceral fat around the abdomen, which contributes to insulin resistance and inflammation, escalating cardiovascular risks. Men often ignore early warning signs, leading to prolonged periods of unmanaged diabetes.Uncontrolled diabetes increases cholesterol levels and blood pressure, compounding the risk of life-threatening events like strokes and heart attacks. Routine health screenings, blood sugar monitoring, and a heart-healthy diet are critical preventive measures. Men over 45 who are overweight should prioritize regular cardiovascular check-ups to mitigate these risks.Early detection and proactive care may limit the progression of complications. How male with diabetes can prevent himself from complications is as follows: Regular EvaluationsAlso known as regular blood sugar, testosterone levels, and cardiac health checks. Lifestyle ChangesQuit smoking, encourage exercise, and eat well-balanced diets. Medical CareConsult a medical care provider for individualized, detailed treatment plans Prevention of Diabetes Symptoms in MenPrevention of diabetes is initiated with awareness of its risk factors and conscious lifestyle choices. Although the type 1 diabetes is diagnosed typically in childhood, in most people, type 2 diabetes can be avoided. Prevention strategies include the following: - Obesity is one of the major risk factors for type 2 diabetes. - An exercise habit can enhance sensitivity to insulin and keep an overall healthy lifestyle.- Focus on whole grains, lean proteins, and fresh produce, avoiding processed foods and added sugars.Diabetes is a complex condition, but understanding its unique risks for men can pave the way for better management and prevention. From erectile dysfunction and low testosterone to heightened cardiovascular risks, addressing these issues requires a multi-faceted approach. Sex differences in risk of incident microvascular and macrovascular complications. Journal of Epidemiology and Community Health. 2024Do men develop type 2 diabetes at lower body mass indices than women? Diabetologia. 2011Sex differences in obesity and the regulation of energy homeostasis. Obesity Reviews. 2009