High Blood Testosterone May Increase Coronary Artery Disease Risk in Men, Study Finds
A growing body of scientific research suggests that hormone balance plays a critical role in long-term health. A recent study conducted by researchers at the University of Cambridge indicates that elevated testosterone levels in the bloodstream may significantly increase the risk of coronary artery disease (CAD) in men. While testosterone is essential for many physiological functions, experts warn that excessively high levels could carry unintended cardiovascular consequences.
Rising Interest in Testosterone Supplements
Over the past decade, testosterone therapy has gained widespread attention. Originally designed as a medical treatment, it is now increasingly marketed as a tool for improving energy, strength, and overall vitality. Many younger men are turning to supplements in hopes of slowing aging, enhancing athletic performance, or building muscle.
Medical professionals emphasize that testosterone replacement therapy remains a legitimate treatment for hypogonadism, a condition in which the body produces insufficient levels of the hormone. Symptoms often include fatigue, reduced libido, and sexual dysfunction. Clinical trials have demonstrated that medically supervised testosterone therapy can improve muscle mass, strengthen bones, and support sexual health.
Additionally, low testosterone circulating in the blood has been associated with poor metabolic health, reinforcing the hormone’s importance in maintaining normal bodily function.
However, as supplement use becomes more common—often fueled by influencer culture and social media advertising—questions about long-term safety are becoming increasingly urgent.
Understanding the Uncertainty Around Heart Health
For years, scientists have debated whether testosterone protects or harms cardiovascular health. Some observational studies have suggested that low testosterone is linked to a higher risk of coronary artery disease. Yet randomized controlled trials—the gold standard in medical research—have produced mixed and sometimes contradictory results.
To gain clearer insight, researchers sought a method that could better determine cause and effect rather than simple association.
A Genetic Approach to Discovering Risk
A research team from the Medical Research Council (MRC) Epidemiology Unit at Cambridge used a technique called Mendelian randomization. This approach analyzes naturally occurring genetic differences to explore whether certain biological traits directly influence disease risk.
The scientists examined genetic data from more than 400,000 participants in the UK Biobank and over one million individuals from the CARDIoGRAMplusC4D consortium. Their goal was to identify gene variants associated with higher testosterone levels and evaluate whether individuals carrying these variants faced a different likelihood of developing coronary artery disease.
The findings were published in the Journal of Clinical Endocrinology and Metabolism, adding weight to ongoing discussions about hormone therapy and cardiovascular safety.
Key Findings: Elevated Testosterone Linked to Higher CAD Risk
The study revealed a notable pattern among men: genetically higher testosterone levels were associated with a 17% increase in the risk of coronary artery disease.
To put this into perspective, the average lifetime risk of CAD is estimated at approximately 7.3%. Higher testosterone could raise that risk to around 8.5%. Although the increase may appear modest, it becomes more significant when considered across large populations.
Researchers believe one contributing factor is testosterone’s tendency to elevate blood pressure, a well-established driver of cardiovascular disease.
Interestingly, the study found no strong evidence connecting testosterone levels with coronary artery disease risk in women, suggesting that hormonal effects on heart health may differ between sexes.
Why Do These Results Differ from Earlier Studies?
At first glance, the findings might seem inconsistent with previous observational research linking low testosterone to heart disease. Scientists propose that the discrepancy likely stems from confounding health conditions such as diabetes and obesity.
Individuals living with these conditions often have lower testosterone levels while simultaneously facing higher cardiovascular risk. This overlap may have created the illusion that low testosterone directly causes heart disease when, in fact, other metabolic factors were involved.
By using genetic analysis, the Cambridge team was able to minimize these confounding influences and provide a clearer picture of testosterone’s potential role.
Expert Insights on Supplement Use
Emily Morbey, a doctoral researcher involved in the study, highlighted the growing popularity of testosterone supplementation:
“More men are choosing testosterone therapy partly due to increased awareness of hypogonadism, but also because of aggressive marketing and social media trends targeting younger audiences.”
She explained that while medically necessary treatment can deliver meaningful benefits, using testosterone solely for performance enhancement may introduce avoidable health risks.
“Our research suggests that high testosterone levels can increase the likelihood of coronary artery disease, potentially raising the risk of heart attack or heart failure. When treatment is clinically justified, the benefits often outweigh the dangers—but that may not hold true when the goal is simply improved performance.”
Calls for Clearer Health Guidance
Professor Ken Ong, the study’s senior author, noted that the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has already issued warnings about possible cardiovascular risks linked to testosterone therapy.
In contrast, the United Kingdom currently lacks unified national guidance addressing the dangers associated with elevated testosterone levels.
“Our findings point to the need for more consistent warnings so that patients can make informed decisions,” Ong stated.
Experts stress that individuals considering hormone therapy should consult qualified healthcare providers rather than relying on online trends or unverified claims.
Balancing Benefits and Risks
Testosterone remains a vital hormone that supports multiple aspects of male health—from muscle development to mood regulation. For patients diagnosed with genuine hormonal deficiencies, supervised therapy can be life-changing.
Yet the emerging evidence underscores a critical message: more is not always better. Hormonal balance is delicate, and artificially pushing levels beyond normal ranges may strain the cardiovascular system.
As research continues, healthcare professionals recommend a cautious, evidence-based approach. Routine monitoring, individualized treatment plans, and transparent discussions about potential side effects are essential for minimizing harm.
The Bigger Picture: What This Means for Men’s Health
The study adds to a growing recognition that preventive care should include hormonal awareness alongside traditional risk factors such as cholesterol, smoking, and blood pressure.
Men considering testosterone supplementation—especially for non-medical reasons—should carefully weigh short-term gains against potential long-term consequences.
Ultimately, informed decision-making guided by medical expertise remains the safest path forward.
FAQ
1. Does high testosterone directly cause heart disease?
The study suggests a strong association between elevated testosterone and increased coronary artery disease risk in men, but individual outcomes depend on many health factors.
2. Is testosterone therapy safe?
When prescribed for legitimate medical conditions like hypogonadism and monitored by healthcare professionals, testosterone therapy is generally considered safe.
3. Should healthy men take testosterone supplements?
Experts advise against using testosterone without medical necessity, as unnecessary supplementation may introduce cardiovascular risks.
4. Why is testosterone popular among younger men?
Marketing campaigns and social media often promote testosterone as a way to boost energy, muscle growth, confidence, and overall performance.
5. Are women affected by high testosterone in the same way?
The research found no clear link between testosterone levels and coronary artery disease risk in women.
Conclusion
The latest research from Cambridge highlights an important health consideration: while testosterone is essential for well-being, excessively high levels may increase the risk of coronary artery disease in men. Medical treatment remains beneficial for those who truly need it, but using hormone supplements for performance or lifestyle enhancement should be approached with caution.
As scientific understanding evolves, one principle remains constant—prioritizing long-term health over short-term gains is always the wiser investment.
