Misleading Men: The Rise of Unnecessary Testosterone Therapy
A growing trend among men is seeking medical help for low testosterone levels, resulting in thousands of unnecessary NHS treatments. According to doctors, social media misinformation plays a significant role in driving this demand.
The issue began when celebrities and influencers started talking about the benefits of high-testosterone supplements on social media platforms like Instagram and YouTube. This led many men to believe that they too could boost their energy and libido by taking these supplements or undergoing medical therapy.
However, medical professionals say that most men do not need testosterone replacement therapy (TRT). In fact, the NHS estimates that up to 1 in 5 men who undergo TRT are actually producing enough testosterone levels. Moreover, long-term use of TRT has been linked to serious health issues, including increased risk of heart disease and stroke.
Doctors warn that social media platforms are often misinformed or misleading when it comes to the effects of low testosterone and TRT. "The internet can be a breeding ground for misinformation," says Dr Sarah Jarvis, a GP who specializes in men's health. "Many online sources provide inaccurate information about the symptoms and treatment options for low testosterone."
As a result, many men are seeking medical help without proper diagnosis or assessment. In some cases, they may even be prescribed unnecessary medications that can have serious side effects.
The NHS is now taking steps to address this issue, advising patients to consult with their GP before seeking TRT. "We need to ensure that patients receive accurate information and undergo proper testing before starting any treatment," says Dr Jarvis.
It's essential for men to approach low testosterone levels with caution and seek medical help only when necessary. By being aware of the risks and taking a responsible approach, they can avoid unnecessary treatments and prioritize their overall health and wellbeing.
A growing trend among men is seeking medical help for low testosterone levels, resulting in thousands of unnecessary NHS treatments. According to doctors, social media misinformation plays a significant role in driving this demand.
The issue began when celebrities and influencers started talking about the benefits of high-testosterone supplements on social media platforms like Instagram and YouTube. This led many men to believe that they too could boost their energy and libido by taking these supplements or undergoing medical therapy.
However, medical professionals say that most men do not need testosterone replacement therapy (TRT). In fact, the NHS estimates that up to 1 in 5 men who undergo TRT are actually producing enough testosterone levels. Moreover, long-term use of TRT has been linked to serious health issues, including increased risk of heart disease and stroke.
Doctors warn that social media platforms are often misinformed or misleading when it comes to the effects of low testosterone and TRT. "The internet can be a breeding ground for misinformation," says Dr Sarah Jarvis, a GP who specializes in men's health. "Many online sources provide inaccurate information about the symptoms and treatment options for low testosterone."
As a result, many men are seeking medical help without proper diagnosis or assessment. In some cases, they may even be prescribed unnecessary medications that can have serious side effects.
The NHS is now taking steps to address this issue, advising patients to consult with their GP before seeking TRT. "We need to ensure that patients receive accurate information and undergo proper testing before starting any treatment," says Dr Jarvis.
It's essential for men to approach low testosterone levels with caution and seek medical help only when necessary. By being aware of the risks and taking a responsible approach, they can avoid unnecessary treatments and prioritize their overall health and wellbeing.