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Globulin (SHBG) and Free Androgen Index (FAI) are also important indicators of hormonal balance in men.
1. Testosterone:
This hormone is produced primarily in the testicles and is responsible for the development of male sexual characteristics, including facial hair, deepening of the voice, and increased muscle mass. Testosterone levels can impact mood, energy, and sexual function. Measuring testosterone levels is crucial in diagnosing conditions like hypogonadism, which is characterized by low testosterone levels (1). Resource: https://www.mayoclinic.org/tests- procedures/testosterone-test/about/pac-20384616
2. Sex Hormone Binding Globulin (SHBG):
SHBG is a protein produced in the liver that binds to sex hormones, including testosterone, in the bloodstream. It helps transport hormones throughout the body and regulates the availability of free, biologically active hormones. High or low levels of SHBG can impact the amount of free testosterone available to the body, which may result in symptoms related to hormonal imbalances (2). Resource: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6680715/
3. Free Androgen Index (FAI):
FAI is calculated by dividing the total testosterone level by the SHBG level and multiplying the result by 100. FAI represents the ratio of testosterone to SHBG and is an estimate of the bioavailable testosterone, which can be used by the body. Evaluating FAI can provide insights into hormonal imbalances and help identify conditions such as androgen deficiency, polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), and other hormonal disorders (3). Resource: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/15955827/
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