Effect of High Levels of Testosterone on Cardiovascular Risk in Polycystic Ovary Syndrome
July 2020
in “
International Journal of Research
”
testosterone hyperandrogenism PCOS polycystic ovary syndrome oral contraceptives estrogen-containing contraceptives metformin liraglutide cardiovascular disease CVD metabolic syndrome lipid metabolism glucose metabolism hypertension systemic inflammation vascular injuries birth control pills estrogen pills Glucophage Saxenda heart disease high blood pressure inflammation blood vessel damage
TLDR High testosterone increases heart disease risk in women with PCOS.
The 2020 review article examined the link between high testosterone levels and increased cardiovascular risk in women with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS). It found that elevated testosterone contributes to metabolic disturbances such as altered lipid and glucose metabolism, hypertension, systemic inflammation, and vascular injuries, which in turn increase the risk for cardiovascular disease (CVD) in PCOS patients. The study concluded that managing hyperandrogenism and implementing lifestyle changes can benefit cardiovascular health in these women. It also noted that high testosterone levels, especially after menopause, are associated with higher cardiovascular risk, and that cardiovascular risk in PCOS is influenced by age and metabolic syndrome components. The use of oral contraceptives in PCOS was linked to cardiovascular events, and management strategies for hyperandrogenism include targeting obesity, PCOS, and related conditions with treatments like estrogen-containing contraceptives, metformin, liraglutide, and lifestyle modifications.
