Using muscle-enhancing drugs can cause testicular cancer

According to research conducted by Yale School of Public Health researchers (USA), taking muscle-building supplements can increase the risk of testicular cancer.

This study has shown that men who have used functional products with muscle-enhancing effects such as Creatine, protein powder and Androstenedione have a higher risk of testicular cancer than those who have not used them.

According to the investigation results, men who used muscle building supplements at least once a week for four consecutive weeks had a 65% higher risk of developing testicular cancer. For those who used more than one type of muscle building supplement, the risk was 177% higher. The researchers also said that using supplements for three years or more increased the risk of the disease by 156%.

The longer a man uses muscle-building drugs, the higher his risk of developing testicular cancer. Men who take muscle-building drugs continuously for three years or more, or who take these drugs before the age of 25, are most likely to develop testicular cancer.

“What is worrying is that it is not just the ingredients or chemicals in dietary supplements that are being highlighted,” said Professor Tongzhang Zheng, who led the study.

Researchers believe part of the reason is that undeclared ingredients in non-prescription supplements are somehow damaging the testicles.

In a previous study, scientists found that 15% of dietary supplements contained anabolic steroids that were not declared on the product.

“If you use drugs at a young age, use many different types, or use them for a long time, you have a higher risk of developing the disease,” added Professor Tongzhang Zheng.

In addition to providing detailed information about their exercise and diet, the men participating in the study also answered questions about their drinking and smoking habits, family history of testicular cancer, and history of groin injuries.

Dr. Larry Lipshultz, a urologist and consultant for Men's Health magazine (USA), emphasized that muscle-enhancing supplements containing Testosterone can cause testicular atrophy when this ingredient is not clearly disclosed for users to understand.

In summary, research shows that men do not necessarily need to avoid using muscle-enhancing supplements, but they need to be aware of the ingredients in them.

When looking to buy muscle-building supplements, experts advise staying away from online stores of unknown origin and instead looking for reputable brands.

Choosing the right muscle-building drug helps you prevent the risk of testicular cancer.