Radiation Cancer Treatments
Radiation cancer treatments are another significant source of low testosterone. The radiation targets the cells in the testes and may reduce their function. Radiation can also affect other organs in the body, including the pituitary gland, which controls testosterone levels.
One study found that men who received radiation treatments in their testes had lower levels of testosterone than men who did not receive such treatments. Another study found that men who received radiation therapy for prostate cancer had lower levels of testosterone after treatment than those who did not receive such treatment.
Furthermore, radiation can cause infertility in men who received it during adolescence or adulthood before they had children. In addition to its effects on fertility, radiation therapy can lead to erectile dysfunction (ED), low sperm count, and gynecomastia (enlargement of male breasts).
