what they said (Hover the mouse cursor over underlined words for more info)

(HealthDay News) - Injections of the male hormone testosterone increased blood-pumping ability and heart muscle strength in men with heart failure, Italian researchers report.

"From our study, it appears that testosterone supplementation is useful for both patients with low and normal testosterone levels, although the improvements are greater in those with low levels," said Dr. Ferdinando Iellamo, an assistant professor of internal medicine at the University of Rome Tor Vergata, and lead author of a report in the Sept. 1 issue of the Journal of the American College of Cardiology...

The original article can be found at: http://www.cbc.ca/cp/HealthScout/090825/6082527AU.html

how did it rate? (more information)

what we said (Hover the mouse cursor over underlined words for more info)

Generally speaking, this was a decent story on the uses of testosterone in cardiac failure. While the evidence presented is clear, it would have been nice to have seen both the benefits and harms quantified. A major drawback of the story centers around the lack of background information provided about this study (i.e. what were the funding sources of this study? who was involved and what are their potential COI?). It is possible that there is a testosterone manufacturer behind this research and such information would be valuable to for readers. That being said, this story is balanced and is characterized by a distinct lack of exaggeration. Most statements are well crafted so as not to develop an overly rosy impression of the treatment. As it concludes: "the case for testosterone therapy in heart failure is far from proven," Amen.

public forum

voice your opinion in the forum

• All comments and feedback submitted to Media Doctor are subject to editorial approval before being made viewable by the public. It may take up to a week for your comments to be approved. Additionally, no response will be given to questions posed in public comments. Media Doctor does not provide medical advice, or answers to medical questions posed by the public.
• If you provide your email address it will not be displayed to the general public.
• Comments may be edited by Media Doctor to remove defamatory or sensitive statements, and brand names.
• Required fields are marked with an asterisk (*).