A six-year study presented at the Endocrine Society’s ENDO 2025 conference suggests that blood sugar levels below diabetes thresholds can quietly affect erectile function and sperm health. The research points to lifestyle factors that influence blood sugar control as important influences on male sexual vitality. Clinicians say managing sugar intake, staying active, and ensuring good sleep may help preserve sexual wellness.
Among Thai men, rising rates of metabolic syndrome and prediabetes make these findings particularly timely. Beyond aging or hormonal shifts, modest increases in blood sugar appear to be associated with changes in sexual function. The message underscores everyday lifestyle choices as part of reproductive health.
The FAME 2.0 study followed 200 healthy men aged 18 to 85 for six years, with 117 continuing follow-ups. Participants did not have diabetes, heart disease, or cancer, allowing researchers to isolate subtle metabolic changes. Researchers tracked semen quality, hormonal profiles, erectile function, and metabolic markers, using HbA1c as a measure of average blood sugar.
A key finding was that while testosterone and general semen metrics remained within normal ranges, sperm motility and erectile function declined most notably in men whose HbA1c rose but did not reach the diabetes threshold. In essence, early metabolic changes can affect sexual health long before a diabetes diagnosis.
A lead investigator noted that age and testosterone have long been linked to sexual health, but this study shows that modest blood sugar increases align more closely with declines in function. For Thai clinicians, this suggests a practical approach: supporting male reproductive health through lifestyle modification and targeted medical care.
Testosterone levels correlated with libido, but they did not strongly predict erectile capability, underscoring blood sugar as a primary factor in functional issues. The takeaway for healthcare professionals is clear: emphasize metabolic health and early intervention to help men maintain sexual and reproductive well-being as they age.
For Thailand, where conversations about sexual health can be sensitive, the message remains highly relevant. National health data shows a meaningful share of adults exhibit prediabetes indicators, a trend that may be amplified in urban settings due to lifestyle shifts. Prediabetes signals risk for heart disease and full-blown diabetes, now also linked to sexual health outcomes.
Thai culture often frames masculinity and vitality as central values. The new findings encourage a practical, balanced approach to life—regular physical activity, nutritious meals, and weight management as foundations for overall health and sexual well-being.
The study also reinforces broader public health messaging about metabolic syndrome, a cluster of conditions including high blood pressure, abnormal cholesterol, and elevated blood sugar. Contemporary Thai research shows many adults face these risk factors, highlighting the need for community-based screening and preventive care.
Actionable steps are clear: prioritize regular health checks, HbA1c testing when advised, and daily physical activity—such as brisk walking for 30 minutes. Limit sugary foods and refined carbohydrates, moderate alcohol intake, and seek medical guidance for early signs of metabolic changes. Early lifestyle changes can protect both sexual health and long-term cardiovascular and kidney health.
Thai clinicians advocate routine metabolic health assessments in primary care, especially for middle-aged men who may hesitate to discuss sexual health. Urologists note rising erectile difficulties linked to early metabolic shifts and emphasize that early lifestyle modification yields better outcomes for sexual and overall health.
Public health messaging in Thailand should unite sexual wellness with metabolic health, reducing stigma and encouraging proactive conversations. Integrating traditional wellness concepts with modern medicine can help communities adopt healthier behaviors and support men in managing their health openly.
Policy discussions point to expanding community-based screenings for high-risk groups and leveraging digital health tools to help men track diet, blood sugar, and sexual health discreetly. Local institutions are exploring programs to support men in making healthier choices without fear of judgment.
Take-home for Thai readers: protecting sexual and reproductive health starts with everyday habits—balanced meals, regular movement, stress management, and routine health checks. Early action preserves vitality and quality of life into later years.
Practical recommendations for Thai men and families: schedule annual blood sugar tests (including HbA1c), stay physically active (join a local team or walk in your neighborhood), limit sugary drinks and snacks, favor home-cooked meals with fresh ingredients, and consult health professionals if sexual health changes occur. Community leaders, employers, and health educators should promote open, stigma-free conversations about men’s health and well-being.
For context on the science and local prevalence, research from reputable institutions and national health data inform these conclusions. Thailand’s prediabetes and metabolic syndrome trends underscore the opportunity for early intervention and lifestyle-based prevention.