Medical professionals in the UAE are raising awareness about the potential role of low testosterone and other hormonal imbalances in men over 40 experiencing fatigue, weight gain, and cognitive difficulties. These symptoms, often mistaken for burnout or aging, may indicate underlying health conditions that require medical attention.

One notable case involved Abdul (name changed), a 42-year-old corporate executive who endured nearly two years of severe tiredness, weight gain, and brain fog, which affected his work performance. Initially, his symptoms were attributed to workplace burnout and depression, but treatment for depression did not improve his condition. Subsequent testing revealed low morning testosterone levels and undiagnosed sleep apnoea. After addressing the sleep disorder, his hormonal balance improved significantly.

In a separate instance, a 38-year-old man experiencing persistent headaches and reduced libido assumed these issues were due to stress and aging. However, medical evaluation uncovered a small, benign tumour in his pituitary gland. Treatment with medication restored his testosterone levels, alleviated his headaches, and eliminated the need for testosterone replacement therapy.

Doctors emphasize that men should not disregard ongoing symptoms such as fatigue, weight gain, low libido, or concentration difficulties. However, they caution that these symptoms do not always indicate low testosterone.

Interest in testosterone testing is growing in the UAE. The Metabolic clinic reported a 44 percent increase in total testosterone tests in 2024 compared to the previous year, followed by a 165 percent rise in 2025, with 2,383 tests conducted that year.

Dr Ismail Arslan, an endocrinologist at Metabolic, noted that many men endure symptoms for extended periods, assuming they are a normal part of aging or the result of long working hours. He stated, "The most common reason for their visit is some noticeable change in their sexual health, for example a decrease in libido, having fewer morning erections, or suffering from erectile dysfunction."