Story perspectives

Men’s Testosterone Fell 54% Since 1972, Obesity Linked

7/8/2026

Summary

Story summary

Researchers at a London meeting reported a 54% testosterone drop in men between 1972 and 2019.
The meta-analysis of six longitudinal studies of 118,593 participants from Israel, the United States, Brazil, Finland and Denmark showed a >1% yearly testosterone drop that accelerated after 2000, with obesity and metabolic syndrome explaining 25-50% of the loss.
Researchers also cited endocrine-disrupting chemicals, global heating and warned that testosterone supplements may suppress sperm production.

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Story summary

Researchers at a London meeting reported a 54% testosterone drop in men between 1972 and 2019.
The meta-analysis of six longitudinal studies of 118,593 participants from Israel, the United States, Brazil, Finland and Denmark showed a >1% yearly testosterone drop that accelerated after 2000, with obesity and metabolic syndrome explaining 25-50% of the loss.
Researchers also cited endocrine-disrupting chemicals, global heating and warned that testosterone supplements may suppress sperm production.