Testosterone has many benefits for men, one of which is being touted as the fountain of youth for its anti-ageing properties. Men say that it helps them to build muscle and lose weight, as well as providing energy, but can it really work? In America, testosterone therapy prescriptions are increasing significantly compared to just ten years ago. The study reported that 50 percent of men who opted for this therapy had lower than normal levels of the hormone. However, 25 percent didn’t even have their testosterone levels tested before starting the treatment. Australia has seen similar results, with men looking to long-lasting injections and gels as a way of getting their hormone fix. In fact, studies show that the latest pharmaceutical figures indicate that the number of men using testosterone injections has more than doubled. Doctors advise that this is wasteful and misguided, providing no rational evidence to support the prescriptions. They further state that it can increase the risk of cardiovascular disease and can accelerate prostate disease.
While the reports indicate that this is a frivolous anti-ageing scheme, there are legitimate reasons for men to use testosterone. Men suffering with androgen deficiencies or a condition known as Kinefelter syndrome will use it as a form of treatment, However, there has been no increase in the number of men with those conditions, meaning that more and more people are using it simply for the energy boost and weight loss benefits. It is being promoted as an andro-pause for ‘male menopause’ or for male sexual dysfunction. The growing overuse of this hormone could be for use as an anti-ageing tonic or as a way to boost a man’s performance in the bedroom. There are clinical trials being carried out as to the uses of testosterone as a possible treatment for obesity and diabetes – however, the results of these are yet to be published.
