High testosterone increases risk of heart disease in men

Men with high testosterone levels have a greater risk of developing heart disease, according to a new scientific study.

Analysis of data from over a million adults showed that these men are 17 percent more likely to develop coronary artery disease, one of the leading causes of heart attack and heart failure.

The researchers from the University of Cambridge focused only on testosterone levels that were naturally high due to genetic factors. However, experts warn that these results should also serve as a warning to men who take testosterone supplements without medical supervision, especially those who buy them online, as the consequences can be serious, even fatal.

Testosterone treatment is medically approved for hypogonadism, a condition in which the body does not produce enough of this hormone and is usually accompanied by persistent fatigue and sexual problems. However, this condition is relatively rare: studies suggest that only about 0.5 percent of men suffer from hypogonadism.

After the age of 40, men's testosterone levels naturally decline by about one percent per year. For most, this decline does not cause noticeable health changes.

Despite this, the private market for testosterone supplements has exploded in recent years and is estimated to be worth over £700m, with an annual growth rate of almost 10 per cent. Many companies promote testosterone as a solution for men in their 30s, promising benefits for mild symptoms such as fatigue, increased muscle mass or improved erections.

According to Emily Morbey, one of the authors of the study from Cambridge, more and more men are taking testosterone supplements not only because of greater awareness of hypogonadism, but also as a result of aggressive marketing and trends on social media, particularly aimed at younger men.

She points out that the study clearly shows that high levels of testosterone in the blood increase the risk of coronary heart disease, which can lead to heart attack or heart failure. When there is a strong medical reason for increasing testosterone, the benefits usually outweigh the risks. But this does not necessarily apply when the hormone is used to enhance physical or sexual performance.

The study's other author, Professor Ken Ong, has called for clearer national guidelines on testosterone use.

The researchers did not find a clear link between testosterone levels and coronary heart disease risk in women, suggesting that the effect appears to be specific to men.

Testosterone is not a risk-free “elixir of youth.” Its use should only be done when there are clear medical indications and always under professional supervision, as high levels can seriously damage heart health.