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| |  ENDO 2000: Endocrinologists Highlight Importance of Appropriate Diagnosis, Treatment of Low Testosterone TORONTO, ON -- June 22, 2000 -- The Endocrine Society recognizes the risk of potential patient abuse of prescribed medications, such as testosterone, in the treatment of hypogonadism. However, the Society is confident that physician and patient education, proper diagnosis, and accurate laboratory testing for low testosterone lessen the potential for abuse. Over four million men suffer from hypogonadism (low testosterone), but less than 200,000 are treated for this disorder. When left untreated, hypogonadism can lead to serious medical conditions, such as osteoporosis and depression. Testosterone treatment should be prescribed only to patients with low testosterone levels. It is the responsibility of the physician to properly diagnose patients to determine low testosterone and prescribe the appropriate treatment. "There is potential for abuse with any prescription medication, which emphasizes the importance of the physician-patient relationship in determining proper diagnosis and treatment," said Dr. Lorraine Fitzpatrick for The Endocrine Society. "The potential for drug abuse will be decreased through education programs aimed at both patients and physicians." The Endocrine Society further emphasizes that it is the responsibility of pharmaceutical companies who manufacture and market prescription drugs to provide physicians and patients with information about risks for potential abuse. Educational materials should include guidelines for appropriate diagnosis of the medical condition, and the risks and benefits associated with use of the product. "As a medical society, it is our responsibility to provide continuing education to our members" stated Scott Hunt, Executive Director of The Endocrine Society. "Our members represent the 'thought leaders' in endocrinology. Peer-reviewed science published in our journals and presented at our meetings provides our members with the latest research and clinical information available -- imperative to the appropriate diagnosis and treatment of their patients." The Hormone Foundation, the patient education and outreach affiliate of The Endocrine Society, has plans to launch a major public education initiative on the use and abuse of hormones. "People can help themselves by becoming educated about the variety of treatment options available. It is essential that individuals discuss options with their physicians to arrive at a joint, well informed, decision about their personal treatment," stated Dr. Lisa Fish, board member of The Hormone Foundation. ENDO 2000, the 82nd annual meeting of The Endocrine Society, taking place in Toronto, Canada from June 21st to June 24th, will highlight new research in the treatment of low testosterone in a men's health press conference on Thursday, June 22 at 8:30 a.m. A continuing medical education symposium titled "Testosterone Replacement Therapy in Men: Emerging Clinical Issues" will be presented on Saturday, June 24th at 6:30 a.m. Patients who suffer from hypogonadism should contact a board-certified endocrinologist who has been trained to evaluate, diagnose and identify a wide spectrum of medical abnormalities responsible for causing male sexual dysfunction including a low testosterone level. The Endocrine Society provides a physician referral service to assist patients in locating an endocrinologist in their area.
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