A new study suggests men with low testosterone levels may face a higher risk of death. Researchers analyzed data from over 24,000 men and found a significant association between low testosterone and both all-cause mortality (death from any cause) and cardiovascular disease (CVD) death.
The study, published in Annals of Internal Medicine, identified a threshold: men with testosterone below 7.4 nmol/L (approximately 213 ng/dL) had an increased risk of all-cause mortality. This risk was even higher for those with very low testosterone, below 5.3 nmol/L (around 153 ng/dL), who faced a greater chance of dying from CVD.
“This research underscores the importance of understanding sex hormones and their impact on men’s health, particularly as they age,” said lead author Professor Bu Yeap.
While the exact cause-and-effect relationship remains unclear, the findings suggest low testosterone might be a marker for underlying health issues that contribute to mortality risk.
It’s important to note that testosterone levels naturally decline with age. This study highlights the potential benefits of monitoring testosterone levels and discussing any concerns with a healthcare professional.
