Taking a male sexual history.

Despite a wave of public awareness of erectile dysfunction as a result of Viagra and its successor oral therapies, most men are not discussing issues related to sexuality with health care professionals. Epidemiologic surveys indicate that male sexual dysfunction (MSD) occupies an epidemiologically compelling position. Few doubt that sexual function is an important priority for men throughout their lifespan. The "therapeutic gap" between the frequency with which clinicians currently engage patients in discussions about sexual health and the optimal frequency of such discussions is substantial. Fortunately, readily applicable interviewing tools can allow health care professionals to obtain necessary fundamental information about sexual health and close this therapeutic gap. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]