Cardiovascular disease and androgens: a review

Area of Science:

• Endocrinology
• Cardiology
• Men's Health

Background:

• Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is a leading global cause of mortality, with distinct gender patterns.
• Estrogen's role in CVD has been extensively studied, but conclusive evidence for its protective effects is lacking.
• Androgens are increasingly recognized for their influence on cardiovascular health and disease, particularly in males.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the current understanding of androgens' role in cardiovascular disease.
• To explore the relationship between androgen levels, aging, and cardiovascular events.
• To examine the implications of androgen abuse versus therapeutic testosterone supplementation on cardiovascular outcomes.

Main Methods:

• Review of existing human observational studies and scientific literature.
• Analysis of the association between testosterone levels and coronary artery disease incidence.
• Evaluation of evidence regarding androgen abuse and testosterone supplementation in cardiovascular health.

Main Results:

• Lower testosterone levels in men are consistently associated with a higher incidence of coronary artery disease.
• Emerging evidence suggests that low androgen levels are predictive of an unfavorable cardiovascular risk profile.
• Abuse of androgens has been linked to sudden cardiac death and adverse cardiovascular events.

Conclusions:

• Androgens, particularly testosterone, are significant factors in cardiovascular disease development and progression.
• The therapeutic use and safety of testosterone supplementation for cardiovascular disease prevention require further investigation.
• Understanding the dual role of androgens—both protective and detrimental—is crucial for managing cardiovascular health in men.