A major international scientific study has found that men with very low testosterone levels may face a higher risk of developing cancer and dying from the disease.
The research, published in The Lancet Healthy Longevity, analyzed data from more than 26,000 men of different ages. Participants were monitored for at least five years.
Researchers emphasized that the findings do not mean that low testosterone directly causes cancer, nor do they justify taking testosterone supplements to prevent disease. According to ScienceAlert, low testosterone should instead be viewed as a potential warning sign that may indicate other underlying health problems or risk factors requiring medical evaluation.
The study’s lead researcher, Bu Yeap from the University of Western Australia, said the aim was to determine whether blood levels of male sex hormones are associated with the future risk of developing cancer or dying from it.
When Does the Risk Increase?
Cancer is the second leading cause of death worldwide and develops due to changes or mutations in the DNA within cells.
The study found that the risk of dying from cancer began to increase in men whose testosterone levels fell below 8.6 nanomoles per liter (nmol/L). Researchers also observed that men whose testosterone levels ranked in the lowest 20 percent had a significantly higher risk of cancer-related death.
Testosterone is a hormone produced primarily in the testicles. According to the Mayo Clinic, it helps maintain bone density, fat distribution, muscle strength and mass, facial and body hair growth, and the production of red blood cells. Testosterone levels rise during adolescence and early adulthood but gradually decline with age.
A Notable Exception
The study found no association between testosterone levels and the risk of prostate cancer, one of the most common cancers in men.
Researchers described this as a surprising exception because the prostate is one of the organs most responsive to testosterone. However, they noted that further research is needed to understand why this relationship was not observed.
Scientists’ Advice
Researchers recommend that men with low testosterone levels undergo a comprehensive medical evaluation rather than self-medicating with hormone supplements. They advise against taking testosterone supplements without consulting a healthcare professional.
The researchers stressed that low testosterone may be a sign of other underlying health conditions that require diagnosis and treatment. They also believe that, in the future, measuring testosterone levels could become an additional tool to help doctors identify men at higher risk of serious cancer complications, allowing for earlier intervention and improving opportunities for prevention and treatment.