Private MD News

High testosterone linked to heart disease

Category: Heart Health and Cholesterol

In addition to the standard battery of tests used to determine an individual's risk of heart disease, men over 65 may want to consider seeking testosterone testing. A new study has found that high levels of the hormone can elevate the risk of heart disease.

Investigators from the University of California used blood test from 697 men to determine the levels of testosterone in their blood. Researchers found that men who had the highest levels of cholesterol were more than twice as likely to develop heart disease as compared to men with the lowest levels of the hormone.

Kristen Sueoka, who led the study, said that the growth in popularity of testosterone supplements may be harmful to many men, especially those who are already at risk for heart disease.

"Many in the general public are using testosterone supplements for various medical problems, including low sex drive and mood disorders, which are not life-threatening," she said. "These men may unknowingly be placing themselves at higher risk for cardiovascular disease."

Heart disease kills more men each year than any other condition, according to the American Heart Association.