Dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) is a steroid hormone produced in the adrenal cortex and secreted primarily by the adrenal glands. The body uses cholesterol to produce DHEA, which the body can then convert into testosterone or estrogen. The hormone plays an important role in stress response and immune function.

The second DHEA test is the DHEA-sulfate test (DHEA-S), which tests the levels of DHEA-S in the blood. Those with optimal levels have a lower risk of death and cardiovascular disease. DHEA-S also helps to reduce oxidative stress and protects diabetics against damaging effects from high blood sugar.

According to a study in the “Journal of the American Geriatrics Society” in 2008, low levels of DHEA-S are linked to a shorter life span, while higher levels are linked with longer life spans. This is true for both men and women. Your doctor can help you determine the cause of lower levels and determine if a supplement is right for you.

The DHEA-S test also checks adrenal gland function especially for women who have excessive hair growth or other male body characteristics and for children who are entering puberty prematurely. Individuals with increased levels of DHEA-S may have congenital adrenal hyperplasia, adrenal carcinoma, polycystic ovary syndrome or a tumor on the adrenal gland.