The real problem with this discussion is that the consequences of
long-term androgen administration to men over 50 are simply unknown.

On this list, contributors have posted studies that suggest problems,
and those that have not shown risks. It will take years to sort this
out, so once again, we will be guinea pigs for science.

The concern is that if you look at the experience with women, giving
estrogens is linked to increased cancer rates. Second, for breast
cancer and cancer of the uterus, delaying childbirth and having fewer
children are risk factors for these diseases. The presumed reason is
that being pregnant stops hormonal proliferation of breast and uterine
tissues. Hormonal stimulation of male tissues with male hormones is a
worryingly close analogy.

It is certainly possible that stimulation of prostate tissue by male
hormones will produce similar issues, and in fact, stimulation of
prostate tissue for years without interruption is of particular
concern. In this case, there is legitimate worry that prolonged dosing
of anabolics will actually cause cancer, rather than just stimulating
pre-existing microscopic tumors. Again though, nobody knows the
answer to this question.

It's a tough issue, and neither glibly dismissing risks as being worry
warts or catastrophically screaming against use of these agents is good
for clarity of though.

We need to be aware of the potential for harm and benefits, and act as
rationally as possible.

JB
On Dec 1, 2005, at 11:07 AM, PozHealth@yahoogroups.com wrote:

> 3. Re: Testosterone and prostate cancer