Wellness and Prevalence of Hypogonadism Among Male Resident Physicians

Hypogonadism is estimated to affect up to 30% of men aged 40-70, with a range of symptoms and health implications. Despite its prevalence, its impact on resident physicians, a group known to experience high levels of stress, irregular sleep patterns, and long working hours, remains largely unexplored. This study aimed to evaluate the prevalence and impact of hypogonadism among male resident physicians.

A prospective study was conducted involving male physicians training at a tertiary referral institution. Participation was offered through distribution to Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education (ACGME) program coordinators and program directors. Participants were given the Androgen Deficiency in the Aging Male (ADAM) and 36-Item Short Form Health Survey questionnaires, and underwent labs including testosterone, follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), luteinizing hormone, and estradiol levels.

Of the 651 male trainees, 27 residents were interested in participating for a response rate of 4.1%. Sixty-seven percent (18/27) completed the surveys and 22% (6/27) completed lab work. Two-thirds of the participants who completed the lab work had total testosterone levels below 400 ng/dL, and half of the participants scored positively on the ADAM questionnaire. A total of 44.4% of participants reported that their health was worse compared to a year prior.

Male resident physicians are an at-risk population for symptoms and signs of hypogonadism. This population may benefit from screening and interventions aimed at reducing the impact of hypogonadism. The findings of this study underscore the need for further research to confirm these results and explore potential interventions.