Ideas of India 2026: Can Hormones Extend Lifespan? Dr. Ambrish Mithal Explains Risks

At the Ideas of India Summit 2026, noted endocrinologist Ambrish Mithal addressed a packed audience on the theme “The Quest for Eternal Youth,” exploring whether hormones can truly help humans live longer and healthier. Dr. Mithal emphasized that longevity is not just about lifespan, but “health span.” While India’s life expectancy has risen from 31 years in 1947 to nearly 70 today, the real challenge lies in ensuring those extra years are disease-free and active. He unpacked three major medical debates: Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) in menopausal women, Testosterone Replacement Therapy (TRT) in men, and GLP-1 drugs such as Ozempic. Addressing concerns around Ozempic, he warned that while these medications are transformative in treating obesity, diabetes, fatty liver, and heart risks, misuse for cosmetic weight loss can be dangerous. Dr. Mithal clarified that HRT, once widely criticized, may benefit younger menopausal women when prescribed carefully. Similarly, testosterone therapy should only be used under strict medical supervision. His key takeaway: No drug replaces disciplined living. Clean eating, strength training, adequate protein, sleep, and disease management remain the true foundations of healthy aging.

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