The article from Iltalehti addresses the issue of functional testosterone deficiency (FH) among aging men, as reported by the medical journal Duodecim. This condition is rare and often results from lifestyle choices or underlying health issues, with obesity identified as the most common culprit. Currently, lifestyle modifications and effective management of underlying diseases are considered the primary treatment methods, though new weight-loss medications may offer additional ways to alleviate symptoms by boosting hormone levels and rectifying functional deficiencies.

Only about two percent of men exhibit clear symptoms of testosterone deficiency, which raises questions about the efficacy of testosterone replacement therapies given the lack of strong evidence supporting their benefits. In the review article, emeritus professor Ilpo Huhtaniemi comments on the trend surrounding testosterone replacement therapies among older men, suggesting that it has become somewhat of a fad without substantial medical backing. This trend may lead to inappropriate treatments or misunderstanding among patients regarding their health and treatment options.

Overall, the discussion emphasizes the importance of accurate information and understanding regarding testosterone deficiency. It stresses the need for further research on the long-term impacts of testosterone replacement therapy and the significance of addressing obesity and other health factors as foundational aspects of treatment instead of solely relying on hormone therapy. This, in turn, could help improve the overall health management of aging men facing this rare condition.