(ARA) – The abundance of treats during the holidays can make it a challenge for men to watch their waistlines and stay consistent with their diets, which can be especially dangerous for men with diabetes. That is why the holiday season is an important time for these men to get informed about the other health issues that can come with their disease. According to data from the American Diabetes Association, approximately 12 million men in the United States have diabetes, and many of these men do not realize that they may be at risk for other serious conditions.

Research has shown that men suffering from diabetes may be at increased risk for a condition called hypogonadism, more commonly known as low testosterone. This is because men with diabetes have lower levels of testosterone than those without diabetes.

Hypogonadism affects up to 4 million men in the U.S., most of whom remain untreated because its signs and symptoms are often attributed to normal aging. These men may experience symptoms such as sexual dysfunction, decreased sexual desire, decreased muscle mass, loss of body hair, low sperm count, and decreased bone mineral density.

“Studies have shown that men with diabetes are twice as likely to have low testosterone as men without diabetes,” says Dr. Helena Rodbard, past-president of the American College of Endocrinology (ACE), and past-president of the American Association of Clinical Endocrinologists (AACE). “It is vitally important for men with diabetes to visit their doctors to discuss the condition and potential risk factors.”

The holiday season is an important time for men with diabetes to take charge of their health.

For more information about low testosterone and a medical condition known as hypogonadism, visit www.IsItLowT.com.