NAIROBI, Kenya – Testosterone is widely known for its role in developing male characteristics and maintaining a healthy libido in both men and women.
However, this powerful hormone also significantly influences muscle size, bone strength, and potentially mood and ovarian function in women.
Scientists believe testosterone might have even more undiscovered functions.
A systematic review and meta-analysis, published on May 13, 2024, in the Annals of Internal Medicine, has shed new light on the critical role of testosterone in men’s health.
The study found that men with low baseline serum testosterone levels are at a higher risk of death from all causes, with a particularly increased risk of dying from cardiovascular disease (CVD).
Researchers from the University of Western Australia, along with colleagues from Europe and North America, analyzed data from 11 studies involving 24,000 men.
These studies, which tracked testosterone levels using mass spectrometry, followed participants for a minimum of five years.
The analysis revealed that men with total testosterone levels below 7.4 nmol/L (213 ng/dL) had a higher risk of dying from any cause.
Those with levels below 5.3 nmol/L (153 ng/dL) faced an even greater risk of cardiovascular death.
Dr. Karen Eilber, a urologist and co-author of “A Woman’s Guide to Her Pelvic Floor,” emphasized that while the study shows a strong association, it’s unclear if low testosterone directly causes these increased death risks or if it’s a marker of overall poor health.
Dr. S. Adam Ramin, a board-certified urologist, added that low testosterone is linked to various health issues, including reduced sexual desire, lower muscle mass, increased fat accumulation, mood disturbances, and fatigue.
These factors can contribute to a higher risk of heart attacks, strokes, and ultimately, death.
Diagnosing low testosterone involves a simple blood test, preferably conducted mid-morning when testosterone levels peak.
The test measures both total and free testosterone, the latter being the bio-available form essential for bodily functions.
If diagnosed with low testosterone, lifestyle changes such as weight loss, improved sleep, reduced alcohol and processed food intake, and regular cardiovascular exercise can help boost levels.
Supplements like DHEA, vitamin D3, Tribulus, and maca might also be beneficial but should be taken under medical supervision.
For those who don’t see improvement through natural methods, testosterone therapy—available in oral, injectable, or topical forms—can be prescribed by a doctor.
