Which hormone increases with age –
**Core Concept**
As people age, various physiological changes occur, affecting hormone levels. The increase in a specific hormone with age is a significant factor in understanding the pathophysiology of age-related diseases.
**Why the Correct Answer is Right**
The hormone that increases with age is Dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate (DHEA-S). DHEA-S is a weak androgen produced by the adrenal glands. Its levels peak in early adulthood and then gradually decline with age. However, as people age, the production of DHEA-S increases, which is thought to be a compensatory response to the decline in other hormones. This increase in DHEA-S may contribute to various age-related changes, including osteoporosis, cardiovascular disease, and cognitive decline.
**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect**
**Option A:**
This option is incorrect because the levels of insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1) decrease with age, not increase. IGF-1 is a hormone produced in response to growth hormone and plays a crucial role in regulating growth and development.
**Option B:**
This option is incorrect because the levels of follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) increase with age in women, but it is not the hormone that increases with age in both men and women.
**Option C:**
This option is incorrect because the levels of calcitonin decrease with age, not increase. Calcitonin is a hormone produced by the thyroid gland that helps regulate calcium levels in the blood.
**Clinical Pearl / High-Yield Fact**
It's essential to remember that the increase in DHEA-S with age may contribute to various age-related changes, including osteoporosis, cardiovascular disease, and cognitive decline. This knowledge can help clinicians tailor their treatment plans to address these specific age-related issues.
**Correct Answer:** D. Dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate (DHEA-S).