Dr. Uday Jani to speak on men’s health issues Dec. 7

Functional and integrative medicine specialist Uday Jani, MD, will present Life in the Middle Ages: A New Understanding of the Male Aging Process, a free talk focused on men's health issues, from 3 to 4:30 p.m., Wednesday, Dec. 7 at the Lewes Public Library.

Male health issues are too often ignored and left unaddressed, a challenge recognized by physicians nationwide, and by global charity Movember Foundation, which raises funds each year by encouraging the growing of mustaches and beards in November. Jani, a well-respected local internist, wholeheartedly supports enhancing awareness of male health, which becomes of particular concern as men age.

"While the symptoms and challenges of female menopause are widely recognized and accepted, males too face a formidable number of issues as they enter middle age," says Jani. "The hormonal change in men, known as male menopause, or andropause, is very much a reality, along with a host of other concerns ranging from depressed libido to increased risk of prostate problems."

Jani urges both men and women to attend his complimentary presentation Dec. 7 to explore the changes that can be expected as males enter their years beyond age 50. "Men traditionally are not thought of as 'good patients,' because they tend to avoid reporting medical issues or scheduling checkups and doctor visits. It will be of great benefit to their partners to be able to recognize some of the key changes that occur as men grow older, and encourage them to reach out for professional assistance," says Jani, who specializes in functional and integrative medicine.

"Men experience more than what was previously thought of as a midlife crisis, and there are a number of ways to cope with the challenges specific to male aging. The first step is recognizing that this is not just a phase or a life stage that may pass unnoticed, but results in tangible symptoms that can and should be addressed in a holistic way," says Jani.

Frequently seen changes as a result of lowered testosterone and the aging process include:

Sexual function - erectile dysfunction, reduced sexual desire and infertility.

Sleep pattern disturbance - insomnia, increased sleepiness, sleep apnea.

• Physical - increased body fat, reduced muscle bulk and strength, decreased bone density.
• Emotional – depression, lower self-confidence, problems with concentration or memory.

"The functional and integrative approach to male menopause may include natural remedies, adjustments in exercise and diet, strategies for stress reduction...all tailored to the individual patient," says Jani. "What is most important for men to keep in mind is that this represents an ideal opportunity to enhance and enrich your current lifestyle, and open the door to a vibrant second act."

To register for the free program, go to www.tinyurl.​com/zv6fcj6.