Historical Evidence: The Korean Eunuch Study
In 2012, researchers published a study in the journal Current Biology detailing their analysis of the genealogy records of 81 Korean eunuchs during the Chosun Dynasty (1392-1910). This study found these castrated men lived significantly longer than non-castrated men of similar status. The average difference was between 14.4 and 19.1 years. The study highlighted a striking number of centenarians among the eunuchs, a rate much higher than modern populations, suggesting a strong correlation between castration and extended lifespan. The researchers noted that while eunuchs often lived outside the palace, even royal family members residing within the palace had shorter lives than the eunuchs, indicating that palace life alone wasn't the primary factor.
Supporting Studies and Counterarguments
A study from a Kansas mental institution in the early 20th century also reported castrated patients living about 14 years longer than intact patients. However, a study of castrati opera singers did not find a similar lifespan increase, demonstrating inconsistencies in historical data and study designs. Critics also point out that historical studies may not have adequately controlled for factors like diet, stress, and physical activity, which could have influenced the results. Changes in behavior post-castration, such as reduced aggression, might also play a role in longevity by reducing risky behaviors.
The Role of Hormones and Genetics
A key theory for the potential link between castration and longevity involves male sex hormones, particularly testosterone. Higher testosterone levels have been associated with increased risk of certain conditions like coronary heart disease. Testosterone also suppresses the immune system, potentially increasing vulnerability to illness. Removing the testes significantly reduces testosterone, which is thought to mitigate these risks. This idea aligns with the theory of antagonistic pleiotropy, suggesting that genes beneficial for early life reproduction (like those for high testosterone) can be detrimental later in life. The longer lifespan of females, who have lower androgen levels, also supports this concept.
The Role of Epigenetics
Recent research explores the epigenetic effects of castration, which are heritable changes in gene expression not caused by changes in the DNA sequence. Studies in male sheep and mice have shown that castration leads to a slower rate of epigenetic aging. The reduction in androgens results in a “feminized” methylation pattern at specific gene sites regulated by androgens, providing a potential molecular mechanism for the observed lifespan extension in these animals.
Modern Androgen Deprivation and Health
It is crucial to differentiate historical castration from modern medical treatments like Androgen Deprivation Therapy (ADT). ADT is used for conditions such as prostate cancer to lower testosterone levels. However, ADT comes with significant side effects including hot flashes, decreased libido, osteoporosis, weight gain, depression, and increased cardiovascular risk. These adverse effects highlight that modern ADT is a medical intervention with risks, not a longevity strategy. Furthermore, studies show that naturally low testosterone in older men can be a marker of poor health and is associated with increased mortality.
Historical Eunuch vs. Modern Male Health
| Feature | Eunuchs in Historical Studies | Intact Men (Historical/General) |
|---|---|---|
| Average Lifespan | Significantly longer (e.g., ~15-19 years in Korean study) | Shorter, with lower incidence of centenarians |
| Hormone Profile | Very low testosterone and other androgens, especially if castrated early | Normal testosterone levels |
| Immune System | Potentially better resistance to certain infections due to non-suppression | Suppressed by higher testosterone, potentially increasing susceptibility |
| Risk of Heart Disease | Potentially lower due to lack of testosterone's effects | Higher risk associated with normal testosterone levels |
| Epigenetic Aging | Delayed or "feminized" pace of biological aging (based on animal studies) | Faster pace of epigenetic aging compared to castrated males |
Conclusion: The Modern Takeaway
The question of whether do castrated men live longer is answered with a complex and nuanced "yes," based on historical and animal studies, but with critical caveats. While historical data suggests a link between early castration and extended lifespan, likely mediated by hormonal and epigenetic changes, this is not a strategy for modern men seeking longevity. The side effects of hormonal deprivation are severe, and for older men, low testosterone is often a marker of declining health rather than a path to a longer life. The real value of this research lies not in replicating the practice, but in using it to understand the fundamental mechanisms of aging and sex-specific differences. Exploring the biological trade-offs and epigenetic changes related to androgen exposure offers a promising avenue for developing targeted, ethical, and safe longevity interventions in the future.
You can read the original Korean eunuch longevity study on the Cell Press website.
