A comprehensive analysis of research trends on andropause among middle-aged South Korean men

Abstract

The objective of this study is to establish foundational data for comprehending the dynamics of research on andropause among middle-aged men. Additionally, it aims to identify potential applications for the development of counseling and education programs tailored specifically to this demographic, as well as to outline future directions and implications for further studies on middle-aged men. This study employs a descriptive research approach, analyzing the literature published in Korea over the past decade that pertains to andropause among middle-aged men. Over the course of the decade spanning from 2012 to 2022, a total of 22 papers addressing andropause-related studies among middle-aged men were identified in Korea. By examining the outcomes of these studies, the following four categories were delineated: understanding the nature of andropause in middle-aged men, comparing andropause experiences among middle-aged men, exploring correlations between andropause and other variables, and investigating causality between andropause and other variables. The findings of this study hold promise in raising awareness among the general population regarding the potential occurrence of andropause in men. Currently, societal policies and perceptions predominantly focus on menopausal care for women. By highlighting the physical, social, and mental changes experienced by men, this research can contribute to enhancing overall awareness and understanding of andropause, thus maximizing its impact.