Lewisville, Texas – With millions of testosterone therapy prescriptions written each year, there’s no denying this has become a huge money-making industry. Even so, the potential benefits of treating low testosterone levels must be carefully weighed against the risks, says Dr. Gregory Echt, the founder and lead surgeon of the Lewisville Flower Mound team.

“There’s no denying that most men who feel less virile than they once did would love to take a magic pill to turn back the hands of time,” says Dr. Echt. “Testosterone therapy, however, can come with its share of risks. These risks should be carefully evaluated by a physician before therapy begins.”

Two recent studies have shed light on potential dangers of testosterone therapy. The Vigen study focused on 8,000 male veterans with a mean age of 63 years who suffered from low T. This study found a link between testosterone therapy and increased risk for stroke and heart attack. The second study, conducted by Finkle and colleagues, looked at a large healthcare database and assessed the risk of myocardial infarction within the first 90 days after initial testosterone prescription as compared with the year prior. This study also found a connection between testosterone therapy and an increased risk of heart attack in younger men and in older subjects who had preexisting heart disease.

The jury, however, is still out. An earlier study that also focused on veterans found a lowered morality rate for those undergoing testosterone therapy even if preexisting heart disease was present.

While the risks of testosterone therapy remain under study, the benefits are well known. Hormone therapy can increase sex drive while bolstering energy. It also has been shown to improve bone mineral density while increasing lean body mass and overall strength, among other benefits.

“The simple truth is there is still a lot we don’t know,” says Dr. Echt. “With that in mind, treating low T comes down to weighing the potential risks versus the rewards. Men who are interested in hormone therapy to treat low T should consult their physicians for the best possible recommendation in their personal case.”

About Lewisville Flower Mound-
Established by leading radiation oncologist, Dr. Gregory Echt, The Lewisville/Flower Mound Oncology Group provides a full range of cancer treatment options including chemotherapy, radiation therapy (IMRT and IGRT), prostate seed implantation, MammoSite therapy, access to PET/CT scanner, hormonal therapy, and combination therapy.