Declining testosterone levels and dementia – Is there a connection?
Testosterone deficiency in men can lead to various quality of life issues such as depression, anxiety, mood swings, and irritability. There is possibly one more health issue that recent scientific research has revealed: Men with low testosterone have a higher incidence of severe cognitive problems. Specifically, studies from this research have found a correlation between clinically low testosterone levels and the development of dementia and Alzheimer’s disease.
Research findings of the relationship of Low Testosterone and Dementia
The research of this revelation was at the University of Western Australia in Perth that was then accepted by the journal of Alzheimer’s and Dementia.
They compiled data from the UK Biobank, an open-access biomedical database that stores detailed genetic and health information from over 500,000 people in the United Kingdom. The study analyzed 159,411 men aged 50 to 73, of which 826 were experiencing dementia and 288 had developed Alzheimer’s disease.
The results showed that even after considering all factors, the men diagnosed with dementia and Alzheimer’s were significantly more likely to have low testosterone. In other words, there was a higher incidence of dementia associated with lower total testosterone levels.
Previous studies have also found a correlation between low testosterone levels and dementia.
Study results about Low Testosterone and Dementia
Even though the study was large and had statistically significant findings, we still need definitive conclusions to have an accurate assessment of these findings.
Research studies such as this identify common occurrences of diseases that tend to happen together, known as correlations or co-occurrences. It is impossible to definitively state that low testosterone causes the cognitive decline associated with dementia.
However, based on the findings, we suspect that there may be a cause-and-effect relationship.
According to the available data, it cannot be asserted that Testosterone Replacement Therapy (TRT) is a cure for dementia or Alzheimer’s. Additionally, it cannot be guaranteed that TRT would prevent someone from developing these cognitive impairments.
Current research suggests that treating low testosterone levels could help medical professionals slow cognitive decline or alleviate symptoms in dementia patients. These possibilities are worth exploring further.
How concerned should men with low testosterone be?
The question needing to be asked is, should the “average” American male be worried about these findings? Currently, the answer is maybe.
It has become increasingly common for younger men to be diagnosed with low testosterone. This may result in a more extended period of untreated low testosterone levels, potentially contributing to earlier cognitive decline if there is a cause-and-effect relationship. However, further data is needed to comprehend the connection between low testosterone and dementia fully.
Takeaway message
Declining testosterone levels in men of any age is concerning and needs addressed when diagnosed. Low testosterone can sneak up on men gradually over time. The warning signs of low T include loss of muscle mass, increased belly fat, low energy, depression, difficulty concentrating, and low libido with weaker and fewer erections. Any man of any age should immediately talk to their doctor about these symptoms and have their testosterone levels checked.
I aim to provide scientific evidence regarding the health risks untreated low testosterone can pose to men. This information will empower men to make well-informed decisions about their overall well-being and if low testosterone actually can lead to slowed cognitive functioning, then treat men with TRT after consultation with their physician.
Dr. David Samadi is the Director of Men’s Health and Urologic Oncology at St. Francis Hospital in Long Island. He’s a renowned and highly successful board certified Urologic Oncologist Expert and Robotic Surgeon in New York City, regarded as one of the leading prostate surgeons in the U.S., with a vast expertise in prostate cancer treatment and Robotic-Assisted Laparoscopic Prostatectomy. Dr. Samadi is a medical contributor to NewsMax TV and is also the author of The Ultimate MANual, Dr. Samadi’s Guide to Men’s Health and Wellness, available online both on Amazon and Barnes & Noble. Visit Dr. Samadi’s websites at robotic oncology and prostate cancer 911.