When individuals search online for solutions to issues like tiredness, mood swings, and decreased libido, they often come across podcasts, Reddit forums, and social media posts attributing these symptoms to low testosterone and suggesting supplements as a remedy.
Medical experts such as OB/GYN and hormone specialist Dr. George Arnold emphasize that various underlying factors could lead to these symptoms, cautioning that the online hype surrounding testosterone may not align with medical realities.
Estimates suggest that around two percent of men may have low testosterone, with prevalence varying across different age groups.
According to a 2021 study published in the Canadian Urological Association Journal, the prevalence of testosterone deficiency ranges from four to 12 percent in men aged 50 to 59 years, nine to 23 percent in men aged 60 to 69 years, and 28 to 49 percent in men over 70 years old.
In contrast, the prevalence of testosterone deficiency in women is lower, as indicated by a 2019 study in the Journal of General Internal Medicine analyzing testosterone prescription rates among U.S. women.
Experts like Arnold advise against relying on testosterone supplements for quick health fixes, highlighting that prescribed medication is the only reliable method to raise hormone levels.
Understanding Testosterone
Testosterone is a natural hormone found in both males and females, known for its involvement in developing secondary sexual characteristics in males and contributing to muscle health, sexual function, and mood in both genders.
Arnold explains that while males have significantly higher testosterone levels compared to females, the hormone performs similar functions in both sexes.
Measuring testosterone levels can be done through a simple blood test, with testosterone classified as a controlled substance in Canada, requiring a prescription for use.
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Arnold mentions that testosterone levels typically peak around the age of 30 in both genders before gradually declining over time, leading to symptoms like fatigue and weight gain.
For diabetic patients with low testosterone, maintaining blood sugar control can become challenging, according to Ottawa Hospital urologist Dr. Luke Witherspoon.