[Testosterone: a treatment for the prevention of cardiovascular disease]

Abstract

Testosterone treatment was largely prescribed and marketed as a potential therapy to treat symptoms of aging. Testosterone levels decrease progressively with aging and low testosterone levels were associated with an increase risk of cardiovascular events and death. Controversies persist whether this association is causal or mediated by confounders of the general health. Systematic screening of testosterone is not recommended in a check-up visit, but only in case of suggestive symptoms. Furthermore a recent meta-analysis and large prospective cohort studies have reported a concern regarding the safety of testosterone therapy and the associated risk of major cardiovascular events. The decision to prescribe testosterone should be made with the patient after evaluating the risks and benefits.