The Relationship Between Testosterone Therapy & Prostate Cancer
Testosterone Therapy Does Not Cause Prostate Cancer: But Regular Screening is Essential
Approximately 2 in every 100 men suffer from low testosterone, with “Low T” increasing dramatically with age – affecting up to 40% of men over 45 years old. Low testosterone can affect everything from sexual drive and performance to energy and the ability to build muscle.
While many cases of low testosterone go undiagnosed, recent studies suggest that 4 to 5 million men in the United States alone could benefit from testosterone therapy.
However, many men hesitate to consider hormone therapy because of a common misconception that testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) can cause prostate cancer. The reality is that research has shown that testosterone itself does not cause prostate cancer.
But if a man has undetected prostate cancer, increasing testosterone levels can stimulate its growth. This is why it is important to work with a hormone expert like Ruthie Harper, MD in Austin, TX who not only understands how to administer testosterone therapy safely but who also knows how to monitor prostate health through regular screening.
Why Consider Testosterone Therapy?
Low testosterone can significantly impact a man’s quality of life through symptoms like fatigue, decreased muscle mass, depression, and reduced sexual drive and performance.
For men with clinically diagnosed “Low T,” testosterone therapy can effectively address these life-altering symptoms. Research indicates that testosterone therapy can help increase muscle mass by 10-15%, reduce body fat by up to 8%, improve bone density by 5-10%, and enhance libido in 60-70% of treated patients!
Additionally, many men report improvements in energy levels, cognitive function, and overall mood within 3-6 months of beginning treatment. However, like any healthcare treatment, testosterone therapy requires careful consideration and ongoing monitoring by a medical expert like Ruthie Harper, MD in Austin, TX to ensure both effectiveness and safety.
Testosterone Therapy & Prostate Cancer Misconceptions
The incorrect notion that testosterone causes the onset of prostate cancer stems from the idea that testosterone acts like a “fuel” for prostate tissue. In reality, while testosterone can influence prostate tissue, it does not cause or cancer.
In fact, studies over the years have shown that men with low testosterone levels are not at a lower risk of developing prostate cancer compared to those with higher levels.
However, the concern with testosterone therapy lies in its potential to accelerate the growth of existing, undetected prostate cancer. So, since testosterone can promote the growth of existing prostate cancer, it’s crucial for men considering testosterone therapy to consult with a hormone expert like Ruthie Harper, MD in Austin, TX.
The Role of a Hormone Expert in Safe Testosterone Therapy
There are several reasons why having an experienced professional is key to safe and effective testosterone therapy. Below, Austin, TX hormone expert Ruthie Harper, MD explains what a skilled and experienced hormone specialist will do to protect your prostate health.
Prostate Cancer Screening & PSA Testing
Before beginning testosterone therapy, a hormone expert will conduct a thorough evaluation to rule out any existing prostate issues. This includes measuring your prostate-specific antigen (PSA) levels, a blood marker commonly used to screen for prostate cancer. Elevated PSA levels can indicate an issue with the prostate, although they do not definitively diagnose cancer.
Regular PSA testing throughout the course of testosterone therapy allows the expert to monitor any changes over time, which is essential for early detection.
Ongoing Monitoring of Testosterone & DHT Levels
A hormone expert will not only check testosterone levels but also monitor dihydrotestosterone (DHT), a hormone derived from testosterone that is linked to prostate health. Elevated DHT levels can increase the risk of prostate enlargement and may influence prostate cancer growth.
By keeping an eye on both testosterone and DHT levels, the testosterone therapy expert can make adjustments to therapy as needed, balancing benefits while minimizing risks.
Managing Potential Risks of Testosterone Therapy
An experienced testosterone therapy expert will also take into consideration the patient’s overall health profile, family history, and prostate health status before recommending TRT.
If there are any concerns about prostate health, the hormone expert may suggest further testing or even advise against testosterone therapy in certain cases. With regular screenings and tailored adjustments, a hormone expert like Ruthie Harper, MD in Austin, TX can ensure that testosterone therapy is as safe as possible, offering patients peace of mind while they enjoy the benefits of TRT.
Regular Screening & Monitoring During Testosterone Therapy
Since prostate cancer can grow more rapidly when testosterone levels are elevated, routine screenings are essential for any man on TRT. A hormone expert like Ruthie Harper, MD in Austin, TX will typically establish a screening schedule that may include the following:
Baseline PSA Testing Before Starting TRT
Establishing a baseline PSA level is crucial, as it gives a point of reference for detecting any changes once therapy begins. Men with PSA levels within a normal range can generally proceed with TRT, but those with elevated PSA levels may require further evaluation.
Ongoing PSA Monitoring During Therapy
Even if initial PSA levels are normal, regular monitoring ensures that any changes are detected early. The frequency of these tests depends on individual risk factors, but many experts recommend checking PSA levels every 3-6 months during the first year of TRT and then at least annually thereafter.
Monitoring of Testosterone and DHT Levels
Regular testing of both testosterone and DHT levels allows the hormone expert to adjust dosages as necessary. Balancing these hormones helps to mitigate any potential risks related to prostate health while maximizing the positive effects of therapy.
Testosterone Therapy | Austin, TX
Testosterone replacement therapy can be highly beneficial for men with low testosterone – increasing muscle mass, reducing body fat, improving bone density, and enhancing sexual drive and performance.
However, testosterone therapy requires an experienced, informed, and cautious approach. By working with a hormone expert, like Ruthie Harper, MD in Austin, TX, who understands the prostate health, men can confidently pursue therapy knowing that they’re in safe hands.
Dr. Harper’s thorough approach ensures that any existing prostate risks are minimized through proactive monitoring and regular screening, allowing men to enjoy the benefits of testosterone therapy with peace of mind.
If you’re considering testosterone therapy, remember that it’s not just about restoring energy and sexual vitality – it’s about doing so safely. With hormone expert Ruthie Harper, MD in Austin, TX by your side, you can make informed decisions and prioritize your health every step of the way.
