What is the normal range of hemoglobin for adult males?

The normal range of hemoglobin for adult males is commonly accepted as 13.5 to 17.5 g/dL. Hemoglobin is a crucial protein in red blood cells responsible for transporting oxygen from the lungs to the tissues and returning carbon dioxide from the tissues to the lungs. Values within this range indicate adequate oxygen-carrying capacity and overall health of the individual.

Understanding why this particular range is appropriate involves recognizing the biological variations in hemoglobin levels that occur due to factors such as age, altitude, and overall health. For adult males, the range reflects physiological differences compared to females, who generally have lower hemoglobin levels due to factors including menstruation and body composition.

Ranges provided in the incorrect options either do not reflect the standard literature or general clinical consensus or pertain to females or populations that might function under different conditions, making them inappropriate when considering typical adult male hematological parameters. It is important for medical professionals to know these normal values to identify potential conditions such as anemia or polycythemia, which would present with hemoglobin levels outside this range.