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Who Is Telling The Truth About Testosterone?

Right! This calls for immediate discussion!

- John Cleese in Life of Brian

 

In the above mentioned 1979 Monty Python film, this was Reggie's response to being informed that his friend and co-conspirator Brian had been arrested and was facing imminent execution. Today, as men taking testosterone supplements are suffering heart attacks and even premature death as a result of testosterone use, discussion continues concerning whether or not these supplements are good, bad or even necessary.

On one hand, there are respected physicians – such as Dr. Abraham Morgentaler, a prominent urologist and men's health specialist – who continue to promote the use of testosterone supplements for the treatment of low energy levels, low libido and building muscle mass. He has also cited studies dating back to the 1980s indicating that “low levels of testosterone are associated with increased cardiovascular risks.”

On the other hand, there are equally respected medical scientists and researchers who are telling us the exact opposite. A recent study published in the Journal of the American Medical Association, led by Dr. Michael Ho of the Veteran's Administration, found that the use of testosterone supplements  were “...associated with a greater risk of death, heart attack, and stroke.” That study has come under some criticism, particularly from Dr. Morgentaler, who described the VA study as “sloppy.”  At the same time, while acknowledging that the JAMA study contained erroneous information regarding subjects who were excluded from the study (he has since published corrections), Dr. Ho stands by the overall results.

Currently, a study led by University of Pennsylvania endocrinologist Dr. Peter Snyder – funded by the federal government to the tune of $50 million – is coming to its conclusion.  While hopefully this study will provide definite answers, Dr. Snyder fears that it is not extensive enough to determine significant risk factors – and the study is designed in such a way as to reveal the benefits of testosterone, rather than any dangers. This is a real concern: if the study suggests that benefits outweigh the risks, it could encourage even more use of testosterone among men who don't need it – but apparently, are willing to do anything for a quick and easy way to hold on to their youth and virility.

There is one fact that most doctors agree with: while there is no sure-fire way to avoid the aging process entirely – including the inevitable decrease in testosterone levels – proper diet and exercise can go a long way toward maintaining one's health and vitality and delaying and even lessening the more unpleasant symptoms of aging.

There’s no doubt that it's far less risky that way.

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