The thymus gland reduces in size with age. It reaches its maximum weight by puberty, then gradually shrinks and is replaced by fat. By the age of 75, the thymus weighs only 6 grams.
The thymus is an important part of the immune system, responsible for producing and maturing T-cells, which are essential for fighting off infections. As the thymus shrinks, the body's ability to produce new T-cells decreases. This is why older adults are more susceptible to infections.
While the thymus shrinks with age, the prostate gland actually grows larger. This can cause urinary problems for men as they age.
