Testosterone is often associated with men, but it plays a crucial role in women’s health too. It’s actually the most abundant biologically active hormone in women [1]. And recent research suggests a surprising benefit: testosterone therapy shows promise in shrinking breast cancer tumors.
The Science Behind It
- Androgens and Cellular Activity: Testosterone is an androgen, a hormone that regulates growth and reproduction. It binds to androgen receptors (AR), influencing cellular activity and gene expression.
- AR and Tissue Growth: ARs are present throughout the body, including breast tissue. Adequate testosterone levels can bind to these receptors and decrease tissue proliferation – essentially slowing down the growth of cells [1].
- Cancer and Cell Growth: Cancer thrives on abnormal cell division. Maintaining healthy testosterone levels may play a key role in both prevention and treatment.
The Challenge: Testosterone Deficiency
As we age, our bodies naturally produce less testosterone. Symptoms of androgen deficiency can start as early as your thirties, and some patients experience incredibly low levels even in their twenties.
This decline in testosterone can contribute to increased telltale signs of “aging” and risks of certain diseases and cancers as we grow older. Healthy testosterone levels play a vital role in immune function, metabolism, inflammation, and – as we’ve seen – abnormal tissue proliferation.
Testosterone Therapy for Breast Cancer
One in eight women will develop breast cancer in their lifetime. Current treatments can be harsh, causing side effects like sterility, worsening menopausal symptoms, and long-term toxicities [2].
Here’s where the exciting research comes in: Testosterone implants have been used for over 70 years, even to treat certain breast cancers [2]. Recent studies are exploring how testosterone therapy can be used alongside other treatments, offering promising results.
Key Findings from Recent Studies
- Research by Dr. Rebecca L. Glaser and Dr. Constantine Dimitrakakis focused on women with hormone receptor-positive, infiltrating ductal carcinoma. Patients received implants containing testosterone and an aromatase inhibitor directly inserted into the breast tissue.
- Reduction in Tumor Volume: One study showed a 43% decrease in tumor volume just 41 days after implant insertion, even before chemotherapy began! The tumors continued to respond well when combined with chemotherapy, leading to complete pathologic response in some cases. Another study demonstrated a sevenfold decrease in tumor volume from a single round of pellet implants in only five months.
- Improved Quality of Life: Beyond tumor reduction, patients experienced significant improvements in symptoms like memory loss, fatigue, sleep disturbance, and depression. Some were even able to discontinue other medications for preexisting conditions.
- Affordability: Another welcome benefit of this intervention was its price tag. The combination implant provides roughly three months of therapy with a single, minimally invasive procedure costing around $2-$3 per day. This compares favorably to the high costs associated with chemotherapy and lengthy hospital stays, which can easily reach six figures even with insurance coverage.
Addressing Concerns and Misconceptions
A common concern among patients is that testosterone therapy might worsen cancer or interfere with other treatments. However, the research suggests that when used strategically, it can be a safe and effective complement to conventional therapies, and even shows promise as a standalone treatment.
Testosterone therapy represents a promising new frontier in breast cancer care. As research continues to unveil its potential, open communication between patients and healthcare providers is crucial for determining the best course of action in each case. These findings offer a beacon of hope and a potential new way to improve the lives of those affected by breast cancer.
Empowering Your Health Journey
At MyHealth1st, we believe in a comprehensive approach to breast health. In addition to staying informed about the latest research, we offer thermography imaging as a complementary screening tool. Thermography can help detect early signs of abnormal vascular activity in the breast, potentially leading to earlier intervention.
Bioidentical Testosterone Therapy: Could It Be Right for You?
The research discussed in this blog highlights the potential benefits of testosterone therapy for both men and women. We at MyHealth1st are proud to offer bioidentical testosterone pellet therapy in our clinic. If you’re interested in learning more about how this therapy could benefit your overall health and well-being, we encourage you to visit our bioidentical testosterone therapy page.
Remember, knowledge is power. By staying informed and exploring all available options, you can take charge of your health journey.
References:
- Pagoto, S., et al. (2015). The Androgen Receptor: Its Role in Human Health and Disease. Maturitas, 81(1), 48-59. Retrieved from: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/23157556/
- Glaser, R. L., et al. (2017). A pilot study of low-dose intramammary testosterone pellets combined with an aromatase inhibitor in postmenopausal women with hormone receptor-positive breast cancer. Clinical Breast Cancer, 16(2), e91-e98. Retrieved from: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30106636/
- Dimitrakakis, C., et al. (2016). Testosterone pellets with an aromatase inhibitor for treatment of postmenopausal women with hormone receptor-positive, HER2-negative infiltrating ductal carcinoma: a pilot study. Oncotarget, 7(28), 43842-43852. Retrieved from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6937705/
- MedlinePlus. (2020, January 29). Androgen receptor. Retrieved from: https://medlineplus.gov/genetics/gene/ar/
Lilly Young
Lilly Young, raised in the realm of health and wellness by her mother, Dr. Lari Young, blends her passion for writing and medical research to offer insightful contributions to the MyHealth1st blog.
