Endocrinology and Metabolism in the Elderly

In 1980, 15% of the British population was over 65 years old compared to 4% in 1900. By the year 2000, it will be about 20%, of which 8% will be over 75. The 'greying' of the developed world has made it essential that physicians become increasingly aware of the unique features of disease in older people. Endocrinology is an area which is particularly affected by ageing. Changes in hormone levels and diseases of the glands which produce them give rise to a wide spectrum of illnesses and classic signs of ageing.