Economic crisis could crunch men's testosterone: doctor

The stress caused by the global economicu00a0crisis could reduce men's testosterone levels, a British doctor warned today.

Chronic stress caused by redundancy, financial worries or working longer hours could make levels of the hormone drop, said Richard Petty, the medical director of a top London men's health clinic.

Testosterone triggers the development of male sexual characteristics. It is linked to sexual function, circulation and muscle mass, as well as concentration, mood and memory.

"When a man becomes grumpy or irritable, it's easy to blame work or simply the effects of ageing," said Petty.

"In the short-term, stress can increase levels of testosterone and this is useful to help people respond quickly to pressures and new situations.

"But chronic stress, which is ongoing, is a major factor in the decline of testosterone.

"Chronic stress occurs all too frequently due to our modern lifestyles, when everything from high-pressured jobs to unemployment keeps the body in a state of perceived threat."

Lower testosterone levels of the hormone can cause lethargy, irritability, lack of concentration and a low sex drive.

Petty advised men to reduce their stress levels as much as possible by resting, eating healthily and exercising.