Is Low Testosterone Affecting Your Quality of Life? A UK Guide to Taking Control
Written by Dr. Raphael Olaiya, GP and TRT Doctor (GMC No. 7492303)
Are you feeling constantly tired, struggling with low libido, or finding it harder to build muscle and stay lean? You are not alone. Millions of men across the United Kingdom experience these symptoms, often without realising they could be linked to low testosterone levels. In fact, studies show that between 8-12% of men aged 40-69 in the UK have testosterone deficiency (TD) [1].
Testosterone is a vital hormone that plays a crucial role in a man’s physical and mental health. When levels decline, the impact on your quality of life can be significant. Symptoms such as low libido (affecting 31% of men with TD symptoms) and reduced erectile function (27%) are common, but the effects can be much broader, impacting your energy, mood, and overall sense of well-being [1].
Why You Should Consider a Testosterone Test
Many men dismiss their symptoms as a normal part of ageing, but they don’t have to be. Low testosterone is a treatable medical condition, and the first step to taking back control is understanding your hormone levels. With average testosterone levels in men declining by approximately 1% per year, it is more important than ever to be proactive about your health [11].
Ignoring the signs of low testosterone can have long-term consequences. Low testosterone is an independent risk factor for developing metabolic syndrome and type 2 diabetes [28]. It is also associated with increased insulin resistance, higher fat mass, and unfavourable cholesterol levels [30].
The Benefits of Knowing Your Levels
Identifying and addressing low testosterone can be life-changing. Testosterone Replacement Therapy (TRT) has been shown to offer a wide range of clinical benefits for men with diagnosed hypogonadism:
- Improved Sexual Function: TRT can significantly improve sexual activity, desire, and erectile function [14].
- Increased Muscle Mass and Strength: It can help you build and maintain muscle mass, making your workouts more effective [15].
- Enhanced Bone Density: Testosterone therapy is proven to increase bone mineral density, reducing the risk of fractures [16] [33].
- Better Mood and Energy: Many men report significant improvements in their energy levels, mood, and overall sense of well-being [17].
- Reduced Fat Mass: TRT can help reduce body fat, contributing to a healthier body composition [19].
Concerns about the cardiovascular safety of TRT have been addressed by the landmark TRAVERSE trial, the largest randomised controlled trial of its kind. The study, involving 5,246 men, found that testosterone therapy was noninferior to placebo for major adverse cardiovascular events, even in men with pre-existing or a high risk of cardiovascular disease [22] [24].
Your First Step: A Simple, Discreet Blood Test
Getting your testosterone levels checked has never been easier. You no longer need to book a doctor’s appointment and wait for a referral. Our at-home testosterone blood test kit provides a simple, convenient, and discreet way to get the answers you need from the comfort of your own home.
Ready to take control of your health? Find out your testosterone levels with our simple and discreet at-home blood test kit. Order yours today and start your journey to a new you.
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About the Author
Dr. Raphael Olaiya is a UK-based General Practitioner and a specialist in Testosterone Replacement Therapy. With years of experience helping men optimise their health, Dr. Olaiya is dedicated to providing safe, effective, and evidence-based care. (GMC No. 7492303)
References
[1] Awareness and prevalence of the symptoms of testosterone deficiency – BMJ Open 2025
[2] Why are we missing the diagnosis of low testosterone in men? – Dr Jeff Foster
[3] The five signs of testosterone deficiency all men need to know – Telegraph 2025
[4] Low Testosterone In Men Over 70 – Goldman Laboratories
[5] Why do Gen Z and Millennial men have lower testosterone? – Medichecks
[6] Benefits and Risks of Testosterone Treatment in Older Men – PMC 2009 (Benefits and Risks)
[7] Testosterone Treatment in Men with Hypogonadism and High Cardiovascular Risk – TTrials / JCI 2021
[8] Testosterone treatment and heart attack risk – VA Research 2017
[9] Effects of Testosterone Replacement on Bone Mineral Density in Hypogonadal Men – JCEM 1997 (Bone Density)
[10] Testosterone and Fractures in Men with Hypogonadism – NEJM 2024 (Fractures)
[11] Cardiovascular Safety of Testosterone-Replacement Therapy – NEJM 2023 – TRAVERSE Trial
[12] Testosterone and metabolic syndrome: the link – PMC 2010 (Metabolic Syndrome)
[13] The effect of testosterone replacement therapy on metabolic syndrome – Frontiers Endocrinology 2023
[14] The role of testosterone in type 2 diabetes and metabolic syndrome in men – ScienceDirect 2016
[15] British Society for Sexual Medicine Guidelines on Adult Testosterone Deficiency, with a Focus on Male Sexual Dysfunction – British Society for Sexual Medicine Guidelines 2023
[17] UK Testosterone Statistics – Forth with Life