Does TR therapy up your risk of serious cardiovascular problems?
It's hard to know how many guys are taking testosterone supplements to ease the loss of sexual drive, erectile dysfunction, fatigue, reduced lean muscle mass and depression. But according to the Urology Care Foundation, low levels of the hormone may affect 50% of men ages 80 and older. And two studies show that it affects 30% of men who are overweight and almost 25% of those with diabetes.
While testosterone replacement (TR) may ease symptoms of male menopause -- AKA andropause -- there's controversy about side effects. The Cleveland Clinic's TRAVERSE trial found that TR didn't increase the risk of heart attack or stroke in men with low testosterone and existing heart conditions. However, another study showed that TR increases the risk of blood clots in the legs, kidney problems, and A-fib. (Hence, the need for baby aspirin therapy along with TR.)
Now, a study in the Journal of the Endocrine Society found that testosterone users (not taking baby aspirin) have an almost 13% increased risk of major adverse cardiovascular events compared to guys not on TR. Plus, there may be other unwanted risks, although more data are needed to confirm that TR increases the risks of breast and prostate cancer. (Baby aspirin decreases those risks, too.)
So, what, besides TR, will preserve and promote your testosterone level? Avoiding or losing belly fat and maintaining a healthy weight is No. 1. Then, combine that with strength-building exercise and avoiding vaping, excess alcohol and hormone-disrupting chemicals in plastics. And ask your doc about baby aspirin. Plus, check out the info on andropause in the 4YOUngevity.com coaching program.
Health pioneer Michael Roizen, M.D., is chief wellness officer emeritus at the Cleveland Clinic and author of four No. 1 New York Times bestsellers. Check out his latest, "The Great Age Reboot: Cracking the Longevity Code for a Younger Tomorrow," and find out more at www.4YOUngevity.com. Email your health and wellness questions to Dr. Mike at questions@4YOUngevity.com.
(c)2023 Michael Roizen, M.D.
Distributed by King Features Syndicate, Inc.
(c) 2025 Michael Roizen, M.D. Distributed by King Features Syndicate, Inc.
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