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Testosterone and prostate cancer have long been thought to be directly linked — but is that belief supported by modern science? In this video, Dr. Kia Michel, board-certified urologist and founder of Comprehensive Urology in Beverly Hills, explains the relationship between testosterone therapy and prostate cancer risk. As a pioneer in robotic surgery, HIFU, and the TULSA procedure, and with Cedars-Sinai affiliation, Dr. Michel brings over 20 years of advanced prostate expertise to this important discussion.

Video Description

For decades, men were told that higher testosterone levels could “fuel” prostate cancer. This belief originated from early research in the 1940s showing that reducing testosterone could shrink advanced prostate cancer. However, modern evidence has significantly refined our understanding.

In this video, Dr. Kia Michel explains the “saturation model,” which suggests that once prostate tissue receptors are saturated at relatively low testosterone levels, additional testosterone does not continue to stimulate cancer growth. Large contemporary studies show that testosterone replacement therapy (TRT), when properly monitored, does not appear to increase the risk of developing prostate cancer in appropriately screened men.

Dr. Michel emphasizes that men should undergo proper evaluation before starting TRT, including PSA testing and prostate screening when indicated. At Comprehensive Urology, we provide in-office diagnostics for faster results and individualized hormone therapy plans. Our Beverly Hills facility offers state-of-the-art care backed by the latest research.

Timestamps:
0:00 – The historical belief about testosterone
0:25 – The saturation model explained
0:50 – What current research shows
1:15 – Screening before TRT

What’s Covered in This Video:

  • The historical link between testosterone and prostate cancer
  • The saturation model theory
  • Safety of testosterone replacement therapy
  • Importance of PSA screening and monitoring

FAQ

Does testosterone therapy cause prostate cancer?
Current evidence does not show that properly monitored TRT increases prostate cancer risk in screened men.

Can men with a history of prostate cancer take testosterone?
In select cases, carefully monitored therapy may be considered under specialist supervision.

Medically Reviewed by:

Written by: Kia Michel, MD, Board-Certified Urologist, Urological Surgeon, & Sexual Health Specialist
Reviewed by: Robert Sanford, MD, Board-Certified Urologist, Urological Surgeon, & Sexual Health Specialist

Last Reviewed: February 27, 2026 2:30 pm PT

How We Review Medical Content: Dr. Michel reviews all references for accuracy and clinical relevance and Dr. Robert Sanford peer-reviews the data to ensure the most up to date information.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Please contact a licensed physician in reference to your specific case.

Kia Michel, MD

Kia Michel, MD

Written by Dr. Kia Michel, a board certified urologist, surgeon, and founding member of Comprehensive Urology in Beverly Hills, Los Angeles. Dr. Michel's expertise includes focal therapy (HIFU/TULSA), prostate cancer treatment, robotic surgery, and male enhancement treatments such as Shock Wave Treatment for ED and penile injections.

Dr. Michel's Bio

Read Next:

Learn about advanced treatment options on our Prostate Cancer page, including robotic surgery, HIFU, and TULSA therapy.

Understand hormone-related causes by visiting our Testosterone Replacement Therapy guide