The Silent Decline: Understanding the Generational Drop in Men’s Testosterone Levels

Andrew H Housley
4 min readAug 30, 2024

In recent decades, a concerning trend has emerged: testosterone levels in men have been steadily declining with each generation. Often overshadowed by more immediate health concerns, this phenomenon significantly affects men’s health and well-being. This article will explore the historical trends, underlying causes, and potential health implications of this decline, supported by scientific research.

Photo by Museums of History New South Wales on Unsplash

Studies have consistently shown a decline in testosterone levels over the years. For example, a study found that testosterone levels in men have dropped by about 25% from 1999 to 2016. Another study highlighted that testosterone levels peak at around 30 years of age and then decline by about 1–2% per year. These findings underscore the importance of addressing the factors contributing to this decline.

Underlying Causes

Several factors contribute to the decline in testosterone levels across generations:

Lifestyle Changes: Modern lifestyles often involve less physical activity and more sedentary behavior, negatively impacting hormone production.

Obesity: Increased rates of obesity are strongly linked to lower testosterone levels. Excess body fat can lead to hormonal imbalances that reduce…

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Andrew H Housley

Author of 'Invisible Sun' a Gold Book Award Winner | Certified Health & Wellness Coach | Writing about spirituality, mental health & well-being.