A growing number of young men are turning to testosterone therapy “to optimize their bodies.” Over the past two decades, testosterone-replacement therapy prescriptions in the U.S. have risen significantly, with a 20% increase from 2016 to 2019 alone, and recent data indicates this trend is continuing upwards. The exact reasons to prescribe testosterone aren’t exclusive, ranging from cosmetic to mental to sexual, which highlights broader societal pressures around masculinity. Now, many young men pursue these treatments to improve their physical appearance and energy levels. However, there are potential health risks and psychological impacts associated with this trend. That factor raises important questions about the pressures young men face to conform to standards of altering their physical appearance to feel good and the cultural preferences driving this phenomenon. (Business Insider)
📊 YPulse data: 48% of 13-39-year-old males agree, “Social media makes me feel bad about my appearance”
