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Updated: May 24, 2026
09:36
Changes in Mammary Gland Morphology and Breast Cancer Risk in Rats
Published on: October 16, 2010
Androgens and breast cancer risk
Peter Kenemans1, Marius J van der Mooren
1Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, VU University Medical Center, Amsterdam, The Netherlands. kenemans@vumc.nl
Summary
Transdermal testosterone supplementation for low libido in postmenopausal women has potential breast cancer risks. Long-term safety data is limited and inconclusive, requiring careful patient counseling.
Area of Science:
- Endocrinology
- Oncology
- Women's Health
Background:
- Transdermal testosterone is used for postmenopausal low libido.
- Concerns exist regarding long-term breast cancer risk with elevated testosterone levels.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the safety and efficacy of transdermal testosterone for postmenopausal women.
- To evaluate the association between testosterone supplementation and breast cancer risk.
Main Methods:
- Review of epidemiological studies on testosterone supplementation and breast cancer.
- Analysis of preclinical data on androgen effects on breast tissue.
Main Results:
- Epidemiological studies are limited in quality and duration, yielding inconclusive results on breast cancer risk.
- Preclinical studies do not show direct androgen receptor-mediated stimulation of breast epithelium.
- Aromatization of testosterone to estradiol is a potential mechanism for mitogenic effects in breast tissue.
Conclusions:
- Current evidence on the long-term safety of transdermal testosterone supplementation for breast cancer risk is inconclusive.
- Further high-quality, long-term studies are needed to clarify the risks.
- Counseling women on testosterone supplementation involves balancing potential benefits against uncertain long-term risks.
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