The Dynamic World of Steroid Hormones: How Sex, Age, and Lifestyle Influence Our Health
A groundbreaking decade-long study from the Institut Pasteur has unveiled the intricate dance of steroid hormones within our bodies. As these vital molecules wield considerable influence over our health, their levels are shaped not only by our genetics and age but also significantly by our lifestyle choices.
Understanding Steroid Hormones: The Basics
Steroid hormones encompass a diverse family, including corticosteroids like cortisone and sex hormones such as progestogens, estrogens, and androgens. These hormones regulate numerous body functions—from metabolism and immune response to the development of sex characteristics and stress management. However, the variation in their levels remains a relatively under-explored area in scientific research.
Revealing Insights from the 10-Year Study
Levels of 17 Hormones Investigated
To bridge the knowledge gap, two research teams at the Institut Pasteur launched a comprehensive longitudinal study, following nearly 1,000 healthy individuals aged between 20 and 69. This cohort, known as the Milieu Intérieur, comprised equal numbers of men and women, thus providing a robust foundation for analyzing variations in 17 different steroid hormones using advanced mass spectrometry.
The study marks a significant milestone as the first of its kind to evaluate such a vast array of hormones in a diverse and healthy population.
The Impact of Oral Contraceptives and Smoking
Published in March 2025, the study revealed compelling findings: nearly all steroid hormone levels fluctuate based on genetics, age, and sex. However, several lifestyle factors also play a crucial role.
For women, oral contraception emerged as a primary influencer, affecting the levels of 12 steroid hormones. According to lead researcher Molly Ingersoll, "Estrogen, androgen, and progestogen levels in women taking oral contraceptives are significantly lower than those seen in menopausal women."
Interestingly, the impact goes beyond sex hormones; women on contraceptives also exhibit heightened levels of certain corticosteroids.
On the other hand, men who smoke experience notable fluctuations in their steroid levels. As testosterone and other androgen levels decline with age, a concerning link with various diseases has been identified, indicating these hormones’ potential role in disease development.
The Significance of Lifestyle Choices
Unexpected Associations in Hormonal Balance
Not all lifestyle choices receive equal attention. The study uncovered surprising correlations, such as the link between fast food consumption and increased levels of cortisone and cortisol. Léa Deltourbe, a PhD student involved in the research, notes, "These unexpected findings emphasize the importance of understanding how our daily choices can influence hormonal balance."
Taking Hormonal Health to Heart
This research illuminates the importance of tailoring treatments for hormone-related conditions to individual characteristics, including sex, age, and lifestyle behavior. By recognizing and addressing these variations, we can better manage hormone-associated diseases and improve overall health outcomes.
Reference: Deltourbe LG, Sugrue J, Maloney E, et al. Steroid hormone levels vary with sex, aging, lifestyle, and genetics. Science Advances. 2025;11(13):eadu6094. DOI: 10.1126/sciadv.adu6094.
Understanding how steroid hormones fit into the broader spectrum of health is key to enhancing our well-being. Dive deeper into the fascinating world of hormones, as their influence reaches far beyond what we often consider, paving the way for more personalized healthcare strategies.
