In the first of three recent studies that focused on aspects of erectile dysfunction (ED), researchers evaluated a nationwide sample of 2126 U.S. men. The overall prevalence of ED, defined as being "sometimes" or never able to maintain an erection adequate for intercourse, was 18%. Prevalence ranged from 7% for young men (age range, 20–29) to 78% among men who were 75 or older. Hispanic ethnicity, diabetes, current smoking, obesity, and hypertension independently predicted ED.
In the second study, researchers in Canada surveyed 3921 men (age range, 40–88) and found that 49% had reported some degree of ED to their primary care physicians. Approximately 70% of men who were 70 or older reported moderate-to-severe ED. Diabetes, cardiovascular disease, current smoking, and current use of antidepressants or antihypertensive drugs independently predicted ED.
In the third study, 221 men (mean age, 59) referred for myocardial perfusion studies (MPS) were screened for ED, which was found in 55%. Men with ED were significantly more likely than those without it to have severe coronary heart disease as indicated by MPS (43% vs. 17%) and left ventricular ejection fraction of <50% (24% vs. 11%). After adjustment for coronary risk factors, ED remained a significant predictor of abnormal MPS.
This research documents the high prevalence of erectile dysfunction, identifies advancing age and diabetes as the two strongest risk factors, and suggests that ED is an important predictor of severe CHD among men referred for myocardial perfusion studies.
Reference:
1. Saigal CS et al. Predictors and prevalence of erectile dysfunction in a racially diverse population. Arch Intern Med 2006 Jan 23; 166:207-12.
2. Grover SA et al. The prevalence of erectile dysfunction in the primary care setting: Importance of risk factors for diabetes and vascular disease. Arch Intern Med 2006 Jan 23; 166:213-9.
3. Min JK et al. Prediction of coronary heart disease by erectile dysfunction in men referred for nuclear stress testing. Arch Intern Med 2006 Jan 23; 166:201-6.