Myths vs facts: Testosteron and longevity

The relationship between testosterone and longevity is often clouded by myths. Fact: Testosterone levels naturally decline with age, and very low levels are associated with increased mortality, sarcopenia, and osteoporosis. However, moderate decline is physiological and not necessarily pathological. The myth that testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) universally extends lifespan in older men lacks strong evidence. Studies show mixed results: TRT can improve body composition and bone density, but may also increase cardiovascular risk, especially in unsupervised use. Direct-to-consumer tests (e.g., MyBody-X) measure genetic predispositions or single blood draws, which are insufficient for diagnosis. The evidence base is 'mixed': mechanistic and observational data exist, but no large RCTs confirm a longevity benefit. Safety note: Unmonitored TRT can worsen sleep apnea, prostate conditions, and cardiovascular events. Always seek endocrinologist guidance before starting therapy.