Are Men Really Men Anymore?
Men are becoming increasingly less masculine as the years go by. Research is showing that testosterone levels in men have been plummeting for decades. This hormone responsible for masculine behavior is no longer being produced at the rate is used to be produced at.
We all know that testosterone levels decrease with age, but the fact is that a 20 year old male today has less testosterone than a 20 year old male 30 years ago. In addition to that, the amount of sperm in semen may also be on the decline.
Sad but True
Two major studies seem to be in agreement when it comes to the fact that testosterone concentrations in males are not comparatively what they used to be.
In fact, one American study showed a 15% drop overall between 1987 and 2004. In addition, there is some question as to whether or not the amount of sperm in semen may also be decreasing.
Although more research is needed in this area, an American assessment done in 1997 estimated a 1.5 percent per year drop in sperm levels.
The results of these studies are consistent with other long-term research that has shown a decrease in sperm health and an increase in fertility which are both relative to testosterone.
Implications
Chronic health problems common today such as diabetes, depression and obesity are linked to lower levels of testosterone. In addition, lower levels of the male hormone can also increase the risk of infertility.
Many researchers believe that the disappearance of the male hormone in men is related to chemical exposure both inside the womb and after birth. In fact, US Air Force veterans who were exposed to Agent Orange during the Vietnam war have lower levels of testosterone than men who were not exposed.
One major chemical to blame for this decline in masculinity is Bisphenol-a. BPA is a hormone-disrupting chemical used in the manufacturing of plastic baby bottles and in the linings of food and beverage cans.
BPA has been shown to mimic the hormone estrogen, producing inconsistent levels of hormones that eventually turn masculine men into feminine boys. It is also responsible for drastically lowering sperm counts.
Of course there is always society to consider as well, where feminism-like traits among men are more pushed and accepted than ever.
