Foreword

The foreword by Derek LeRoith introduces an issue of the Endocrinology and Metabolism Clinics of North America, edited by Ronald Tamler, which covers a range of topics in Andrology. The issue includes articles on the development of the hypothalamic-pituitary axis, hypogonadism, and delayed puberty, with treatments such as testosterone or gonadotropins discussed. It addresses the evaluation and treatment of male infertility, the impact of systemic diseases and aging on hypogonadism and low testosterone, and the relationship between obesity, hypogonadism, and obstructive sleep apnea. The issue also explores the role of testosterone in coronary artery disease, the management of androgenic alopecia with minoxidil and finasteride, and the treatment of male osteoporosis with bisphosphonates or testosterone supplementation. Prostate cancer diagnosis and treatment, hypoandrogenism, erectile dysfunction, and the psychological impact of andrologic disorders are also discussed. Lastly, the use of nutraceuticals in treating erectile dysfunction and the potential role of antioxidants like lycopene in preventing prostate cancer are considered, with a call for more rigorous testing of these treatments.