Testosterone is a naturally occurring hormone that is higher in a man’s body than a woman’s. It plays an essential role in sex drive, reproductive ability, and energy levels. Health professionals have long advocated testosterone supplements to men whose levels were considered lower than normal because the hormone has such an important function. However, recent data shows unnecessary use of supplemental testosterone could increase a man’s risk for developing prostate cancer.
One such study, published in the journal Endocrinology, was conducted using laboratory rats by researchers at the University of Illinois in Chicago. The results showed increasing the levels of testosterone in the rats also increased the incidence of prostate tumors and exacerbated the effects of carcinogenic chemical exposure. A portion of the rats in the study were given injections of the carcinogenic chemical N-nitroso-N-methylurea and then dosed with testosterone through slow-release implants.
Of all the rats, 10% to 18% of those given only testosterone developed prostate carcinomas, while 50% to 71% given testosterone and the carcinogenic additive were affected. Rats exposed to the carcinogenic chemical without testosterone supplementation did not develop prostate cancer.
What the Study Means for Human Men
The study results could dramatically impact how doctors treat testosterone imbalance in male patients. If a man has high levels of testosterone and smokes or exposes his body to other carcinogenic elements, his risk for prostate cancer can increase.
Researchers believe this is because testosterone creates a friendly environment for tumors to grow. Medical experts believe testosterone itself should be considered a weak carcinogen based on the results of the study.
Recent years have brought about an increase in testosterone supplement prescriptions. The aging baby boomer population plays a role, as more and more men are seeking support from their doctors as their energy wanes and their sex drive decreases. In addition to an aging population, men are becoming more comfortable discussing their sex lives with doctors and they are exposed to pharmaceutical advertisements on television, online, and in print publications.
Effects of Testosterone Levels on Health
Testosterone levels tend to fluctuate throughout a man’s life. During puberty when testosterone levels are high, it assists with the building of muscle, change in voice, and growth of the penis and testes. In adulthood, testosterone helps maintain muscle and bone strength, as well as a man’s interest in sex.
Once a man reaches age 30, he begins to experience a gradual decline in testosterone. For some, this produces a decreased interest in sex. In addition to aging, several other factors can trigger a decrease in testosterone levels, including testicle injury, hormonal disorders, infection or disease, and obesity.
As a result of the recent study, researchers are encouraging doctors to use extreme caution when prescribing testosterone therapy. Many believe that unless a man has been diagnosed with hypogonadism, a condition that develops when testosterone levels are low, testosterone supplementation might be unnecessary.
Symptoms of low testosterone levels are usually not debilitating, but they can have a detrimental effect on a man’s quality of life. In addition to reduced sex drive and lack of energy, they include:
- Erectile dysfunction
- Trouble orgasming
- Reduction in testicle size
- Reduction in genital sensation
- Fatigue
- Mood disorders, including feeling unmotivated or depressed
- Irritability
- Reduced muscle mass
- Increased body fat
If you have concerns about whether testosterone supplementation is right for you or a doctor prescribed you testosterone supplements and you are experiencing medical problems, contact us for more information.
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