Both men and women have testosterone but the hormone is found in higher amounts in males. It’s responsible for numerous functions, from sex drive to muscle strength. Maintaining your testosterone level is vital for overall health, especially since low testosterone is associated with a greater risk for anemia.
Red Blood Cells
Red blood cells contain hemoglobin, a protein molecule that has oxygen attached. The main job of red blood cells is to transport oxygen to tissues, where it is used for proper functioning. Anemia is a condition in which you lack sufficient healthy red blood cells. Some known causes of anemia include chronic diseases, poor diet, pregnancy, kidney failure and certain medications, according to the Mayo Clinic.
Symptoms
Anemia can produce a wide range of symptoms, including exhaustion, problems concentrating, chest pain and headaches. In addition, symptoms such as constipation and tingling have been reported, according to the Mayo Clinic.
Testosterone and Anemia
Low testosterone levels may increase your risk for anemia, according to a study conducted at the University of Virginia Health Sciences Center. Researchers analyzed the testosterone levels and red blood cell count of older patients with pituitary tumors. Scientists reported in the May 2003 issue of the “Journal of Neurosurgery” that patients with low testosterone were more likely to be anemic than the subjects with normal testosterone levels.
Additional Research
Similar results were also seen in research published in the July 2006 issue of the “Archives of Internal Medicine.” Researchers at the National Institute on Aging investigated the effects of testosterone levels on the risk of anemia in older men and women. Testosterone and hemoglobin levels were measured at baseline and reassessed three years later. Scientists discovered that men and women with the lowest testosterone levels were more likely to be anemic compared to subjects with the highest testosterone levels.
