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  Why Does High Blood Sugar Cause Male Infertility? Medical Experts Explain the Key Reasons

  Studies on diabetes's impact on male reproductive capacity are increasing, with substantial evidence suggesting that poor blood sugar control can lead to male infertility. Taiwanese health authorities report 25,000 new diabetes patients annually, with 11.8% being adults aged 18 and above. Dr. Huang Shang-yu of Lin-kou Chang-Geng Hospital emphasizes that diabetes, beyond its association with stroke and cardiovascular disease, significantly affects male reproductive function.Multifaceted Effects of Diabetes on Sperm and Sexual FunctionResearch indicates that diabetes can decrease sperm count and motility, potentially leading to oligospermia and azoospermia. A study by Queen's University Belfast found that the semen quality of diabetic men is generally lower than that of healthy men, and their semen contains higher white blood cell counts, indicating potential chronic inflammation. Furthermore, high blood sugar can cause mitochondrial dysfunction in sperm, leading to increased oxidative stress that damages sperm DNA, affecting embryo development and health.Diabetes may lead to a decrease in sperm count and motility. (Image/Provided by Heho Health)Impact AreasSemen Quality: Diabetic patients show significant decreases in sperm concentration, motility, and normal morphology.Sexual Dysfunction: Sexual nerve damage may result in erectile dysfunction or inability to ejaculate.Chronic Inflammation: High blood sugar increases the risk of inflammation in the prostate and seminal vesicles, further disrupting ejaculatory function.Medical Advice: Male Fertility EvaluationDr. Huang recommends that men suspecting diabetes-related infertility undergo professional evaluation, including:Semen Analysis: Testing sperm concentration, motility, and morphology.Sperm Function Tests : Assessing sperm fertilization capacity.Sexual Function Examination: Evaluating erectile function and sexual activity.Genetic Testing: Examining chromosomal and DNA damage levels.Older men have fewer sperm, and their sperm movement often follows curved trajectories. (Source: Maosheng Hospital)Sperm DNA damage testing is a recent technology that can predict embryo development outcomes and improve fertility success rates. Diabetic patients should actively manage blood sugar and adopt early preventive and therapeutic measures to reduce the risk of infertility and maintain their own and their offspring's health.

  2024-12-20 09:05
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  Psoriatic Arthritis Patients Should Aim for 'Targeted Therapy'

  Psoriatic arthritis patients not only endure the visible discomfort caused by skin lesions but may also face swelling and pain in the fingers, toes, and limb joints, with a potential risk of joint deformities. Dr. Chiu Ying-Ming, a rheumatologist at China Medical University Hospital, explains that psoriatic arthritis is caused by an imbalance in the immune system. While it is difficult to cure, "targeted therapy" can provide effective control. This approach emphasizes active communication between patients and physicians, setting phased treatment goals, and promptly adjusting the treatment plan if the goals are not met, striving for optimal results.Psoriasis is a condition caused by an imbalance in the body's immune system. (Image/Provided by Heho Health)With advances in medicine, there are now more treatment options for psoriatic arthritis, ranging from topical ointments to physical therapy for symptom relief. However, since the root cause lies in the immune system's excessive inflammatory response, it is essential to address the inflammation at its source. In recent years, biologics have become a key treatment option for autoimmune diseases, effectively suppressing specific inflammatory factors. These treatments not only improve skin lesions but also alleviate arthritis symptoms, with some patients achieving PASI 100—complete clearance of skin lesions.Dr. Chiu shared the success story of a psoriatic arthritis patient whose skin lesions completely disappeared after using second-generation biologics, achieving PASI 100 and returning to pre-disease skin conditions. This transformative result restored the patient's confidence. Dr. Chiu emphasized that patients should not settle for their current treatment outcomes but should maintain close communication with their doctors, set progressive treatment goals, and strive for better results to improve their quality of life.Before and after psoriasis treatment. (Image/Provided by Heho Health)For psoriatic arthritis patients, managing overall health in daily life is as crucial as medication. Physicians advise patients to actively adhere to treatment and attend regular follow-ups. By making adjustments based on disease progression, patients can achieve optimal control of their condition.Source: Heho Health (authorized use)

  2024-12-19 09:05
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  Wang Jian-Min Passed Away from Lung Adenocarcinoma! NTU's Dr. Chen Jin-Hsing: 'Everyone Must Do This'

  Wang Jian-Min, aged 56, passed away from lung adenocarcinoma. He was diagnosed with stage IV lung adenocarcinoma in November last year after visiting the hospital due to back pain. The cancer had spread from his right lung to his cervical spine and brain. During the seven months of chemotherapy, his weight dropped from 89 kilograms to 77 kilograms.In a previous media interview, Wang revealed that he had been hospitalized in December last year, undergoing surgery and chemotherapy. Throughout his treatment, he received nine rounds of chemotherapy and more than 60 radiation sessions. Despite enduring numerous treatments, he remained grateful to the medical team for their care and noted that the tumor had shrunk and his condition had improved.Early-stage lung cancer can be detected through CT scans. (Photo: Courtesy of Heho Health)However, Wang’s condition deteriorated again. His sister shared a heartfelt message on social media mourning his passing: "With Jian-Min's departure, everything fades into nothingness!" She also expressed gratitude to friends and the medical team who provided support and care during his illness.Lung Cancer: A Global ThreatLung cancer remains one of the deadliest cancers worldwide. According to 2024 statistics, over 2.3 million new cases of lung cancer are diagnosed globally each year, with 1.8 million deaths reported. In Taiwan, the incidence and mortality rates of lung cancer have been steadily increasing, making it the cancer with the highest National Health Insurance expenditure. According to the Ministry of Health and Welfare, lung cancer has ranked among the top two causes of cancer-related deaths for 44 consecutive years. Unfortunately, most patients are diagnosed at a late stage, highlighting the importance of early screening.Early Detection with LDCTDr. Chen Jin-Hsing emphasized that low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) is currently the best tool for early lung cancer screening, significantly improving early diagnosis rates. He recommends that individuals aged 40 and above consider self-paid LDCT screening and stresses the importance of regular health check-ups. Additionally, Dr. Chen noted that besides smoking and air pollution, indoor pollutants and certain carcinogens may also contribute to lung cancer risk. He advised minimizing prolonged exposure to these potential hazards.Dr. Chen Jin-Hsing, Director of the Department of Surgery at NTU Hospital. (Photo: Courtesy of Heho Health)Hope Through Prevention and Early DetectionAlthough lung cancer is deadly, early detection and proper treatment can lead to recovery. Maintaining healthy lifestyle habits, a balanced diet, regular exercise, and avoiding pollution are crucial measures for preventing lung cancer. By promoting proactive prevention and screening efforts, the health risks posed by lung cancer can be significantly reduced.This article is authorized by Heho Health.

  2024-12-13 09:05