Study shows how high testosterone in the body impacts men and women differently

A recent study suggests, higher levels of testosterone can increase the risk of diabetes and some types of cancer in women.
high testosterone
Higher testosterone levels can trigger certain diseases. Image courtesy: Shutterstock
Reuters Updated: 13 Oct 2023, 01:31 pm IST
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We all know how maintaining a balance in life can ease everything and an hormonal balance is no different. Hormonal imbalance isn’t great for our bodies–it not only affects our mood but is also responsible for increasing the risk of certain diseases.

If you have a higher level of testosterone–the male sex hormone–genetically you’re at the risk of developing diabetes and certain types of cancers. A recent study shows how higher testosterone levels in men and women impact their bodies differently. 

Also, read: Can cancer really be prevented? Well, hear it from an oncologist

Katherine Ruth, a genetics specialist at Britain’s Exeter University who co-led the study says: 

The results give a unique insight into the disease impacts of testosterone and emphasise the importance of considering men and women separately in studies, as we saw opposite effects for testosterone on diabetes.

The study published in the journal Nature Medicine used the genetic data of more than 4,25,000 people registered in the UK Biobank to study 2,571 genetic variations linked to differences in levels of testosterone. 

Using the statistical analyses, the team found that women who have genetically higher testosterone are 37% more prone to developing type 2 diabetes and 51% more likely at the risk of polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)–a hormonal disorder that affects menstruation. It also raises the risk of endometrial and breast cancers in women.

Men with high testosterone, on the other hand, have a reduced risk of diabetes but but a high risk of cancer.

Also, listen:

Working towards to balance this hormone is the key to reduce the risks of diabetes and certain cancer. Slash the risk by following a healthy lifestyle, or you can also try testosterone-reducing therapies. 

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