ADAM Scale — Androgen Deficiency Screening
The ADAM (Androgen Deficiency in Aging Males) questionnaire is a widely used first-pass screen for low testosterone. It is short, yes-or-no, and designed to flag who should get blood tests — not to diagnose anyone.
What it asks
The questions cover the classic pattern of androgen decline: reduced libido, lack of energy, loss of strength or endurance, falling height, decreased enjoyment of life, sadness or grumpiness, weaker erections, and reduced ability to perform during sport or work. A cluster of "yes" answers is a signal to investigate further.
Strengths and limits
The ADAM is sensitive — it catches most men with low testosterone — but not specific: many men with normal levels also score positive, because the symptoms overlap with depression, poor sleep and stress. That is exactly why a positive screen leads to blood tests, not treatment.
Common questions
What blood tests follow a positive screen?
Typically morning total testosterone on two separate occasions, plus hematocrit, PSA, lipids and other markers your clinician chooses based on your history.
Can I skip the blood test?
No. Symptoms alone are not enough to diagnose androgen deficiency or start TRT.