Abnormal Testosterone Levels Linked to Heart Rhythm Risk
Higher and lower levels may double the risk of atrial fibrillation for older men, highlighting the importance of balance.
Updated on Oct. 24, 2026 in Men’s Health
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Research published in the Journal of the Endocrine Society suggests that both low and high testosterone levels may increase the risk of atrial fibrillation. This finding highlights the need for careful hormone monitoring, particularly as many men evaluate testosterone replacement therapies.
Why it matters
Atrial fibrillation can lead to fatigue, dizziness, and irregular heart rhythms, making it vital to understand how hormonal balance affects heart health. Because both extremes of the testosterone range appear to carry risks, maintaining levels within the normal range may be key to heart safety.
A study of 4,570 older men followed for a median of 4.4 years found that individuals in the highest two testosterone categories faced double the risk of atrial fibrillation compared to those in the middle group. Results remain debated, as a 2024 analysis of 106 trials showed inconsistent links.
The players
Journal of the Endocrine Society
A medical publication that disseminates research regarding hormone-related health, metabolism, and endocrine disorders.
TRAVERSE trial
A major study that evaluated the long-term cardiovascular safety of testosterone replacement therapy in older men.
The details
Testosterone levels appear to influence cardiac stability through specific cellular pathways. Low hormone levels may disrupt calcium regulation within heart cells, while high levels may alter potassium currents, both of which can interfere with the heart's electrical rhythm. The 2023 TRAVERSE trial, involving 5,246 men, observed atrial fibrillation in 3.5 percent of those using testosterone gel compared to 2.4 percent in the control group.
Timeline
2023: The TRAVERSE trial examined testosterone treatment and heart health.
2024: Researchers conducted an analysis of 106 randomized trials.
October 2026: Research was published in the Journal of the Endocrine Society.
Health Landscape
This research builds on the findings of the TRAVERSE trial by examining how hormonal fluctuations contribute to cardiovascular outcomes. It highlights a shift toward understanding the optimal hormone range for heart health rather than focusing solely on testosterone deficiency.
If you are undergoing testosterone therapy or managing hormone-related concerns, consider asking your doctor how your heart rhythm health is being monitored. Be proactive in reporting symptoms like dizziness or unexplained fatigue, as these may be early signs of irregular heart rhythms.
The takeaway
The latest findings suggest that keeping testosterone levels within the middle of the normal range may be the safest approach for heart rhythm health. If you are concerned about your hormone levels, discuss the potential cardiovascular implications with your physician at your next checkup.
Further reading
For more on managing long-term wellness, visit our Men’s Health section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by ScienceAlert.
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