A study released this month in the Journal of the American Medical Association examined a correlation between men taking testosterone and an increased risk of heart attacks and strokes. A more in depth look at this study reveals that all of the men tested were older than 60 and all of them had existing heart problems.
Researchers at the University of Texas at Southwestern Medical Center in Dallas reviewed records from more than 8,700 men with low T levels who underwent coronary angiography- a procedure that uses dye and X-rays to examine heart arteries- in the Veterans Affairs system between 2005 and 2011.
Like all observational studies, this one has its limitations. For example, it is unclear how many of the men taking testosterone were properly diagnosed and whether their levels were tested before being given testosterone. Low T can be diagnosed through a simple blood test. A level below 300 nonograms per deciliter of blood is considered to be low.
What can be taken away from the study is that men over the age of 60 with multiple health problems should use caution when choosing to undergo testosterone replacement therapy. There is no reason for this study to be generalized to the broader population of men taking testosterone. This study simply does not apply to men in their 30’s, 40’s, 50’s and those that do not have heart disease.
However, this study does emphasize the importance of the doctor-patient relationship when undergoing testosterone replacement therapy. At Rejuve Health Clinics, Medical Director Dr. Chester Miltenberger oversees all patient injections and closely monitors all pertinent levels. His background is in Internal Medicine and he has been a practicing physician for more than 25 years.
Rejuve Health Clinics, Inc. diagnoses and treats male patients with symptoms of hypogonadism (low T). We are dedicated to helping men with low testosterone regain their vitality and achieve optimal health. Our doctors and experienced medical professionals help address the many symptoms caused by this medical condition including fatigue, decreased energy, low motivation, weight gain and diminished sex drive. For more information or to schedule an appointment, call 407-331-LowT (5698).
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