However cumulative stress leads to an increasing number of symptoms and the very real likelihood that there is a DHEA deficiency. In patients between 50 and 79 years of age, DHEA levels are 40 percent lower in women and 35 percent lower in men who have cardiovascular disease than in those without this disease. Premarin and other estrogen replacements do not raise DHEA levels and carry many risks. It appears that both men and women become relatively deficient in progesterone after age 50. This deficiency may be aggravated by smoking as well as obesity.
Body fat produces estrogen, even in men, leading to excess estrogen and lowered progesterone.
This decrease is progesterone is almost certainly partially responsible for the declining DHEA levels often reported with aging. Excess and cumulative stress additionally lowers DHEA, weakening the immune system. Both syndromes of menopause and andropause as well as the many diseases increasing after age 50 may be prevented with appropriate, safe therapies. You can begin with exercise. It is never too late to start an exercise program.