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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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  Flu and COVID-19 Vaccines Administered Simultaneously! CDC Introduces 'Companion' Priority Vaccination Measures

  The government-funded flu and COVID-19 vaccines are now available. To improve the convenience of vaccination, the CDC has launched an “Accompanying Vaccination” initiative for the first time this year, encouraging people to bring seniors and young children to get vaccinated together. Starting today, those who accompany individuals eligible for the first phase of the flu or COVID-19 vaccination and meet the requirements for the second phase (beginning November 1) can receive the COVID-19 vaccine at the same time, without having to wait until the next phase, thus reducing the inconvenience of making multiple trips.People need to receive the latest vaccine every year to ensure optimal protection. (Photo Courtesy of Heho Health)Minister of Health and Welfare, Qiu Taiyuan, stated that this year the government has procured approximately 6.43 million doses of the quadrivalent flu vaccine and about 5.5 million doses of the new JN.1 COVID-19 vaccine, available for people eligible for the publicly funded vaccination. He emphasized that both flu and COVID-19 viruses mutate rapidly, with different strains circulating each year. The protection provided by the vaccines lasts only one year. Therefore, people need to get vaccinated annually to ensure the best protective effect.Many people mistakenly believe that vaccination is solely to prevent infection. Dr. Cheng Shaoyi, Director of the Family Medicine Department at National Taiwan University Hospital, clarified that the primary purpose of vaccination is to reduce hospitalization and mortality rates after infection. She reminded the public, especially healthcare workers, the elderly, young children, and new parents—high-risk groups—to prioritize getting vaccinated in the first phase. The two vaccines can be administered on the same day or at any time interval at different sites, providing dual protection.Flu and COVID-19 vaccines administered simultaneously. (Photo Courtesy of Heho Health)According to the CDC, this year, nearly 4,000 contracted medical institutions nationwide are offering vaccination services. The public can use the local health bureau websites, the CDC’s Influenza Prevention Portal, the CDC’s official website, the "CDC Home" app, or call the 1922 epidemic prevention consultation hotline to find nearby contracted institutions, check their operating hours, and confirm appointment availability to avoid missing vaccination opportunities or wasting waiting time, ensuring smooth vaccination. Vaccination effectively reduces the risk of severe illness or complications after infection, protecting the health of oneself and family members.

  2024-10-13 09:00