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The Philippine Male Aging Survey
J A C Reyes1, D A Tan, J A Quimpo
1St Luke's Medical Center, Extension, Quezon City, Philippines.
Summary
Male aging, or andropause, is a growing global concern. Filipino physicians recognize andropause symptoms but need more education and clinical trials for effective testosterone replacement therapy.
Area of Science:
- Gerontology
- Andrology
- Public Health
Background:
- The aging male population presents increasing global health challenges, necessitating immediate attention to prevent severe health outcomes.
- The Philippine Society for the Study of the Aging Male Foundation, Inc. (PhiSSAM) initiated a survey to assess healthcare provider perspectives on male aging in the Philippines.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine Filipino physicians' knowledge, attitudes, and practices concerning andropause (the aging male syndrome).
- To identify barriers and needs related to the diagnosis and treatment of andropause among Filipino physicians.
Main Methods:
- A survey was conducted among Filipino physicians to gather data on their understanding and management of male aging.
- Data collected included physician beliefs about andropause, diagnostic methods used, and current treatment practices.
Main Results:
- Approximately 87% of physicians believed men experience andropause, often diagnosed symptomatically rather than via testosterone levels (20-30%).
- While 89% acknowledged andropause's impact on quality of life, only 38% prescribed treatment, citing a need for more clinical trials and drug information.
- Key concerns regarding testosterone replacement therapy included prostate cancer, benign prostatic hypertrophy, and heart disease.
Conclusions:
- Filipino physicians demonstrate awareness of andropause but require enhanced education and resources for effective patient management.
- Further clinical research and accessible information on treatments are crucial to increase the adoption of testosterone replacement therapy.