Darwinian Health and Other Contradictions

The document from December 31, 2016, explores various aspects of male health through the lens of evolutionary medicine, discussing the concept of Darwinian health, which suggests that evolution selects for reproductive fitness rather than individual well-being. It addresses the complexity of defining a healthy diet, the mixed results of testosterone supplementation on health and longevity, and the trade-off between reproductive benefits and survivorship costs. The text also examines the role of testosterone in immune function, the "unguarded chromosome" hypothesis, and the differences in lifespan between sexes due to mitochondrial functions. It delves into prostate cancer, noting its higher prevalence in developed regions and its complex association with testosterone levels, citing studies on Tsimane and Ariaal men but without providing specific participant numbers. Erectile dysfunction (ED) is discussed in terms of its prevalence, risk factors, and cultural remedies, as well as the role of hair in signaling age and reproductive status. The document concludes with a discussion on sexual orientation, aging, and health, challenging the view that homosexuality is evolutionarily disadvantageous and citing a Danish study with over 8,000 individuals, including 4,914 men, which found that mortality rates in same-sex marriages eventually leveled out with the general population. It emphasizes the need for a broader understanding of human sexual identities and gender roles in the context of health.