Lung Health and Hypoandrogenism

Abstract

Epidemiological reports offer evidence that gender differences mediate respiratory diseases. Male sex is a major risk factor for respiratory distress syndrome and bronchopulmonary dysplasia in neonates. An imbalance between oxidants/antioxidants leads to stress, which has been implicated in airway disease development. It is known that androgens deficiency induces oxidative stress and lipid peroxidation in the lung, synchronically with changes in the expression of cytoprotective markers. Additionally, males are more susceptible to acute and chronic inflammation after toxicant exposure. Besides, nutrition is an important factor, given that lipids are the main blocks for surfactant production and for testosterone synthesis. Also, an adequate amount of Zn in the diet prevents inflammation and is necessary for testosterone and androgen receptor structure and function. This chapter focuses on understanding the effect and clinical implications of testosterone deficiency on lung tissue as well as exploring the role of lipids and zinc in the outcome of several respiratory diseases.