Poll finds gaps in men's knowledge of testosterone beyond libido

A new poll of 2,000 men commissioned by a private clinic found widespread gaps in knowledge about testosterone, with many respondents aware of its link to sex drive but unaware of several other important physiological roles. The survey, conducted via OnePoll.com for Leger Clinic, found 74 percent of men knew testosterone influences libido, while more than half did not recognize its role in regulating mood and three quarters did not know it affects bone density.

Respondents also showed limited awareness of other signs and functions tied to testosterone. Half or fewer identified muscle mass and facial hair growth as related to testosterone, and fewer still associated it with sperm production or voice depth. Just 16 percent correctly identified that typical testosterone levels begin to decline in the 30s; most believed declines occurred later in life.

The poll captured anxiety as well as ignorance. Nearly three in 10 men said they feared they lacked adequate testosterone, often citing erectile dysfunction as a reason. Two in three respondents reported they had experienced trouble achieving or maintaining an erection. Overall, 58 percent said low testosterone would have a negative...