Low testosterone levels in men lead to increased risk of mortality.
A study conducted by Australian researchers reveals a connection between decreased testosterone levels in men over 50 and shorter lifespans. Particularly low hormone levels significantly up the chances of perishing from heart-related diseases.
Testosterone serves an essential role in the sexual development of males and is crucial for both libido and muscle building. Although the link between testosterone and men's health has been explored in previous studies, outcomes have been conflicting. As part of a global team, researchers at the University of Western Australia (UWA) scrutinized eleven of these research projects. Their findings, published in the "Annals of Internal Medicine" journal, showcase a considerable link between testosterone levels and death risks in older males.
Over 24,000 Male Participants Analyzed
A total of 24,000 men participated in the eleven studies assessed. The average age of these individuals spanned from 49 to 76 years. Their testosterone concentration was measured meticulously via mass spectrometry and supervised for at least five years. Investigators combined the discoveries from individual patient records (IPD), focusing on correlations between hormone amounts, the likelihood of cardiovascular illnesses, fatalities, and general mortality rates.
Prominent physician, Bradley Anawalt from the University of Washington School of Medicine in Seattle, applauded the approach in a supplementary editorial. Mass spectrometry is viewed as the most accurate approach for determining testosterone levels, according to Anawalt, as shared by "MedPage Today". Moreover, the research was modified for covariates, which could potentially sway the results. These include variables such as age, BMI, matrimonial status, alcohol usage, smoking behavior, physical activity, high blood pressure, diabetes, creatinine concentration, total-high-density lipoprotein cholesterol ratio, and usage of lipid drugs.
Significant Findings
The study's results were made clear. They revealed that males with extremely low testosterone levels in their blood plasma faced a heightened risk of demise from cardiovascular illnesses, according to lead author Bu Yeap. Additionally, overall mortality rates — the mortality percentage in a specific group during a particular timeline — were more considerable.
Analyzing the outcomes concerning the concentrations of other hormones, it was discovered that the relationship between lower testosterone levels and increased overall mortality was independent of this and remained the primary influencer. This information was unveiled by Dr. Bu Yeap.
Men with lower testosterone counts and normal or elevated SHBG (sex hormone-binding globulin) witnessed an increased risk of death. Conversely, those with reduced testosterone levels and low SHBG experienced a lower risk, as noted by Dr. Yeap. This news mirrors the fact that some men with low testosterone counts may not be hypogonadal, meaning their testicles do not produce sufficient hormones.
In his editorial for "MedPage Today", Dr. Anawalt concluded, "These epidemiological data bolster the assumption that hypogonadism is linked to higher cardiovascular and/or mortality rates. Moreover, these findings support the 'free testosterone hypothesis,' which emphasizes that the unbound form of testosterone is the vital hormone variant — an idea that is somewhat contentious."
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The groundbreaking study conducted by Australian ageing research specialists at the University of Western Australia highlights the association between reduced testosterone levels in older men and increased risks of mortality, particularly from heart-related diseases. This significant finding in the field of health education can have implications for future prevention and treatment strategies.
Furthermore, the comprehensive research in Australia has potential implications for global ageing population health, emphasizing the necessity of continued investment in hormone research and education to improve men's longevity and wellbeing.
Source: www.ntv.de
