Testosterone not only regulates men’s sexual drive, muscle mass, and bone strength, but also affects the risk of obesity, prostate cancer, and cardiovascular disease. As men age, testosterone levels decline, which can lead to certain health problems.
Some media and non-scientific sources present testosterone supplements as a “fountain of youth,” but long-term scientific data are limited.
Previous Research and Observations in Humans
In a large-scale study conducted in 1994, male smokers who took high doses of beta-carotene daily had an 18% increased risk of lung cancer. Later, in 1996, the study was stopped early after it was found that high doses of beta-carotene and retinol increased cancer risk.
Other forms of vitamin A increased the risk of lung cancer by 28% among smokers and asbestos-exposed workers. In 2011, a study involving more than 35,500 men over the age of 50 found that high doses of vitamin E increased the risk of prostate cancer by 17%.
These results surprised scientists because, according to the classic view, antioxidants should neutralize free radicals and reduce cancer risk.
Testosterone Supplements and Recent Research
A program supported by the National Institutes of Health, with a budget of $50 million, treated men over 65 with significant testosterone deficiency for one year. Participants received either testosterone gel or a placebo and were monitored under a double-blind study design.
The men in the study showed symptoms associated with low testosterone and were considered to be at low risk for prostate cancer and cardiovascular disease.
Results
Key findings of the study:
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Raising testosterone levels improved sexual function, mood, and depressive symptoms.
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Adverse events, including skin reactions and other risks, were very rare, and the safety profile was similar to the placebo group.
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While benefits existed, they were modest and applied only to selected low-risk individuals.
Molecular and Clinical Considerations
The long-term effects of testosterone supplements on cognition, bone health, coronary artery plaque formation, and anemia are still being studied. In terms of safety, no serious adverse effects were observed over one year, but the risks of prostate cancer and cardiovascular disease may emerge over a longer period.
Medical Advice
Testosterone supplementation should only be tried under medical supervision in men with testosterone deficiency who show symptoms.
Research indicates that testosterone is not a panacea and may be beneficial only in specific circumstances.
Broader and longer-term studies are needed to fully assess potential risks.
Conclusion: Testosterone supplements may provide certain benefits for older men, particularly in improving sexual function and mood. However, these benefits are limited and cannot be widely applied without medical oversight.