A population-based, longitudinal study of erectile dysfunction and future coronary artery disease

Insulin resistance is an independent determinate of ED in young adult men

Background

Insulin resistance (IR) triggers endothelial dysfunction, which contributes to erectile dysfunction (ED) and cardiovascular disease.

Aim

To evaluate whether IR was related to ED in young adult patients.

Methods

A total of 283 consecutive men complaining of ED at least six months were enrolled, with a full medical history, physical examination, and laboratory tests collected. Quantitative Insulin Sensitivity Check Index (QUICKI) was used to determine IR. The severity of ED was assessed by IIEF-5 questionnaire. Endothelial function was assessed by ultrasonographic examination of brachial artery flow mediated dilation (FMD).

Results

IR was detected in 52% patients. Subjects with IR had significant higher total cholesterol, triglycerides, low density lipoprotein-cholesterol (LDL-c), glycated haemoglobin (HBA1c), high sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP) and body mass index (BMI), but showed significant lower IIEF-5 score, FMD%, high density lipoprotein -cholesterol (HDL-c), testosterone, sex hormone binding globulin (SHBG) levels than patients without IR. Multiple regression analysis showed QUICKI and testosterone were independent predictors of IIEF-5 score. Furthermore, the incidence of IR was correlated with the severity of ED.

Conclusions

Compared with other CVFs, IR was found as the most prevalent in our subjects. Besides, IR was independently associated with ED and its severity, suggesting an adverse effect of insulin resistance on erectile function.

Can the mean platelet volume be a risk factor for vasculogenic erectile dysfunction?

Purpose

The mean platelet volume (MPV) is a marker of the platelet activity and is reported to increase in vascular diseases. We aimed to investigate the association between MPV and vasculogenic erectile dysfunction (ED).

Materials and Methods

MPV and platelet (PLT) levels were measured in 50 cases of ED and 40 healthy controls. The diagnosis of vasculogenic ED was based on a detailed sexual history, physical examination, laboratory assessment, and color Doppler ultrasonography. The results are given as mean±standard deviation of the mean.

Results

The mean ages of the patient and the control groups were 53.70±12.39 years (range 24~77 years) and 53.85±9.5 years (range 30~73 years), respectively (p=0.947). The MPV and PLT values were significantly higher in the patients with ED than those of the controls (7.49±1.4), (6.85±1.2), (262.97±68), (252.89±82) respectively, p<0.001). However, the MPV values were not statistically significantly different in the patients with severe ED according to the International Index of Erectile Function than in those with mild ED, p>0.05), and there was no correlation between MPV and either age of patients (p=0.905) or duration of ED (p=0.583).

Conclusions

The platelet count and MPV was detected to be increased in patients with vasculogenic ED. This finding suggests a role for platelets in the pathogenesis of vascular complications and that the MPV would be useful in monitoring disease progression.

Health-related characteristics and unmet needs of men with erectile dysfunction: a survey in five European countries

INTRODUCTION

Data suggest that ED is still an underdiagnosed and undertreated condition. In addition, it seems that men with ED are unsatisfied about their relationship with their physician and with the available drugs.

AIM

The study aims to identify health-related characteristics and unmet needs of patients suffering from erectile dysfunction (ED) in big 5 European Union (EU) nations (France, Germany, Italy, Spain, and UK).

METHODS

Data were collected from the 2011 5EU National Health and Wellness-Survey on a population of 28,511 adult men (mean age: 47.18; SD 16.07) and was focused on men (5,184) who self-reported ED in the past 6 months. In addition, the quality of life (QoL) and work productivity/activity were explored.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

Health-related QoL (HRQoL) and work productivity were measured with SF-12v2 and WPAI validated psychometric tools.

RESULTS

One in every 20 young men (age 18-39) across 5EU experienced ED in the past 6 months. About half of men (2,702/5,184; [52%]) with ED across all ages did not discuss their condition with their physician. Interestingly, among those men who did discuss their condition with their physician, 68% (1,668/2,465) do not currently use medication. These findings were more evident in the age group of 18-39 years. Only 48% (2,465/5,184) had a closer relationship with their physician, suggesting that this quality of relationship may be unsatisfactory. Compared with controls, ED patients have a significantly higher intrapsychic and relational psychopathological comorbid burden and relevant decreasing in HRQoL, with a significantly higher impairment on work productivity/activity.

CONCLUSION

Data suggest that there is a need for a new therapeutic paradigm in ED treatment which images the achievement of a new alliance between physician and patient. Hence, alternative drug delivery strategies may reduce the psychological and social impact of this disease.

Reproductive sequelae of diabetes in male patients

Diabetes mellitus (DM) is an increasingly prevalent public health concern. A recent study projected the number of people worldwide with DM to increase from 171 million in 2000 to 366 million in 2030. Although DM is a systemic disease that often leads to end-organ dysfunction of multiple body systems, the effects of the condition on male fertility are often not fully appreciated. DM is associated with multiple risk factors for reduced male fertility potential, including erectile dysfunction, various manifestations of ejaculatory dysfunction, and hypogonadism.

Erectile dysfunction and asymptomatic coronary artery disease: frequently detected by computed tomography coronary angiography but not by exercise electrocardiography

AIMS

Erectile dysfunction (ED) and vascular disease, in particular coronary artery disease (CAD), have the common denominator of endothelial dysfunction. ED frequently precedes a CAD event by between 2 and 5 years (average 3 years). ED also predicts an acute coronary syndrome as well as increased mortality, suggesting the rupture of an asymptomatic coronary plaque. This study compares multi-detector cardiac computed tomography (MDCT) with maximal treadmill exercising in men with ED and no coronary symptoms as a means of detecting coronary lesions.

METHODS

Sixty-five men with organic ED and no cardiac symptoms were prospectively screened for CAD. All underwent maximal exercise testing and MDCT in the same 7-day period. The Sexual Health Inventory for Men questionnaire established the presence of ED.

FINDINGS

The exercise ECG was borderline abnormal in three men and normal in 62. CT calcium was present in 53 (score 5-1671) and non-calcified plaque in seven. The MDCT angiogram was normal in only 5 (3.25%).

CONCLUSION

Erectile dysfunction may predict CAD in the absence of cardiac symptoms. MDCT detects subclinical plaque which may be vulnerable to rupture and which is not flow limiting enough to influence the exercise ECG. The window of 2-5 years between ED and a CAD event offers an opportunity for aggressive risk factor reduction. ED should be a routine question in any risk calculator.

The assessment of vascular risk in men with erectile dysfunction: the role of the cardiologist and general physician

Erectile dysfunction (ED) and cardiovascular disease (CVD) share risk factors and frequently coexist, with endothelial dysfunction believed to be the pathophysiologic link. ED is common, affecting more than 70% of men with known CVD. In addition, clinical studies have demonstrated that ED in men with no known CVD often precedes a CVD event by 2-5 years. ED severity has been correlated with increasing plaque burden in patients with coronary artery disease. ED is an independent marker of increased CVD risk including all-cause and especially CVD mortality, particularly in men aged 30-60 years. Thus, ED identifies a window of opportunity for CVD risk mitigation. We recommend that a thorough history, physical exam (including visceral adiposity), assessment of ED severity and duration and evaluation including fasting plasma glucose, lipids, resting electrocardiogram, family history, lifestyle factors, serum creatinine (estimated glomerular filtration rate) and albumin:creatinine ratio, and determination of the presence or absence of the metabolic syndrome be performed to characterise cardiovascular risk in all men with ED. Assessment of testosterone levels should also be considered and biomarkers may help to further quantify risk, even though their roles in development of CVD have not been firmly established. Finally, we recommend that a question about ED be included in assessment of CVD risk in all men and be added to CVD risk assessment guidelines.

Increased risk of erectile dysfunction among males with central serous chorioretinopathy -- a retrospective cohort study

PURPOSE

Central serous chorioretinopathy (CSCR) mostly affects middle-aged men and has been associated with stress and hypercortisolism. We hypothesized that some factors prone to inducing CSCR could also have a harmful effect on erectile function. This study aimed to investigate the risk of subsequent erectile dysfunction after CSCR using Taiwan National Health Insurance Research Database.

METHODS

The study cohort (n = 1220) consisted of newly diagnosed CSCR men aged 19-64 years between 1999 and 2007, and men matched for age, monthly income and time of enrolment were randomly selected as the control group (n = 10870). Cox proportional hazard regressions were performed to calculate the hazard ratios (HR) of clinically diagnosed erectile dysfunction (including organic origin and/or psychogenic origin) for the two groups. Erectile dysfunction-free survival analysis was assessed using a Kaplan-Meier method.

RESULTS

Twenty-five patients (2.0%) from the CSCR cohort and 103 (0.9%) from the control group were diagnosed erectile dysfunction clinically during a mean observation period of 4.3 years. Patients with CSCR had a significantly higher incidence of erectile dysfunction diagnosis than those without CSCR (p < 0.001). After adjusting for age, geographic location, chronic comorbidities and medication habits, patients with CSCR were found to have a 2.22-fold [95% confidence interval (CI), 1.42-3.46] higher hazard ratio of a subsequent erectile dysfunction diagnosis than the matched controls. The adjusted HR for organic and psychogenic erectile dysfunction were 2.14 (95% CI: 1.34-3.44) and 3.83 (95% CI: 1.47-10.01), respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

Central serous chorioretinopathy was independently associated with an increased risk of being diagnosed with erectile dysfunction.

The role of interventional radiology in the diagnosis and management of male impotence

Erectile dysfunction (ED) is defined as the persistent inability to reach or maintain penile rigidity enough for sexual satisfaction. Nearly 30% of the men between ages 40 and 70 years are affected by ED. A variety of pathologies, including neurological, psychological, or endocrine disorders and drug side effects, may incite ED. A commonly identified cause of ED is vascular disease. Initial diagnostic workup includes a detailed physical examination and laboratory tests. Whilst duplex ultrasound is considered the first-line diagnostic modality, intra-arterial digital subtraction angiography is still considered the "gold standard" for the diagnosis of arteriogenic impotence. Percutaneous endovascular treatment may be offered in patients with vasculogenic ED that has failed to respond to oral medical therapy as an alternative to penile prosthesis or open surgical repair. In arteriogenic ED balloon angioplasty of the aorto-iliac axis, and in veno-occlusive ED, percutaneous venous ablation using various embolization materials has been reported to be safe and to improve sexual performance. Recently, the ZEN study investigated the safety and feasibility of drug-eluting stents for the treatment of arteriogenic ED attributed to internal pudendal artery stenosis with promising preliminary results. This manuscript highlights the role of interventional radiology in the diagnosis and minimally invasive treatment of male impotence.

Diabetes severity, metabolic syndrome, and the risk of erectile dysfunction

INTRODUCTION

Erectile dysfunction (ED) is more common in men with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), obesity, and/or the metabolic syndrome (MetS).

AIM

The aim of this study is to investigate the associations among proxy measures of diabetic severity and the presence of MetS with ED in a nationally representative U.S. data sample.

METHODS

We performed a cross-sectional analysis of adult participants in the 2001-2004 National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

ED was ascertained by self-report. T2DM severity was defined by calculated measures of glycemic control and insulin resistance (IR). IR was estimated using fasting plasma insulin (FPI) levels and the homeostasis model assessment of IR (HOMA-IR) definition. We classified glycemic control using hemoglobin-A1c (HbA1c) and fasting plasma glucose (FPG) levels. MetS was defined by the American Heart Association and National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute criteria. Logistic regression models, adjusted for sociodemographics, risk factors, and comorbidities, were fitted for each measure of T2DM severity, MetS, and the presence of ED.

RESULTS

Proxy measures of glycemic control and IR were associated with ED. Participants with FPG between 100-126 mg/dL (5.6-7 mmol/L) and ≥ 126 mg/dL (>7 mmol/L) had higher odds of ED, odds ratio (OR) 1.22 (confidence interval or CI, 0.83-1.80), and OR 2.68 (CI, 1.48-4.86), respectively. Participants with HbA1c 5.7-6.4% (38.8-46.4 mmol/mol) and ≥ 6.5% (47.5 mmol/mol) had higher odds of ED (OR 1.73 [CI, 1.08-2.76] and 3.70 [CI, 2.19-6.27], respectively). When FPI and HOMA-IR were evaluated by tertiles, there was a graded relation among participants in the top tertile. In multivariable models, a strong association remained between HbA1c and ED (OR 3.19 [CI,1.13-9.01]). MetS was associated with >2.5-fold increased odds of self reported ED (OR 2.55 [CI, 1.85-3.52]).

CONCLUSIONS

Poor glycemic control, impaired insulin sensitivity, and the MetS are associated with a heightened risk of ED.

A systematic review of the association between erectile dysfunction and cardiovascular disease

CONTEXT

Erectile dysfunction (ED) is considered a vascular impairment that shares many risk factors with cardiovascular disease (CVD). A correlation between ED and CVD has been hypothesized, and ED has been proposed as an early marker of symptomatic CVD.

OBJECTIVE

To analyze the relationship between ED and CVD, evaluating the pathophysiologic links between these conditions, and to identify which patients would benefit from cardiologic assessment when presenting with ED.

EVIDENCE ACQUISITION

A systematic literature review searching Medline, Embase, and Web of Science databases was performed. The search strategy included the terms erectile dysfunction, cardiovascular disease, coronary artery disease, risk factors, pathophysiology, atherosclerosis, low androgen levels, inflammation, screening, and phosphodiesterase type 5 inhibitors alone or in combination. We limited our search to studies published between January 2005 and May 2013.

EVIDENCE SYNTHESIS

Several studies reported an association between ED and CVD. The link between these conditions might reside in the interaction between androgens, chronic inflammation, and cardiovascular risk factors that determines endothelial dysfunction and atherosclerosis, resulting in disorders of penile and coronary circulation. Because penile artery size is smaller compared with coronary arteries, the same level of endothelial dysfunction causes a more significant reduction of blood flow in erectile tissues compared with that in coronary circulation. Thus ED could be an indicator of systemic endothelial dysfunction. From a clinical standpoint, because ED may precede CVD, it can be used as an early marker to identify men at higher risk of CVD events. ED patients at high risk of CVD should undergo detailed cardiologic assessment and receive intensive treatment of risk factors.

CONCLUSIONS

ED and CVD should be regarded as two different manifestations of the same systemic disorder. ED usually precedes CVD onset, and it might be considered an early marker of symptomatic CVD.

Community pharmacy detection of erectile dysfunction in men with risk factors or who seek treatment or advice but lack a valid prescription

INTRODUCTION

Pharmacists may be the first health care contact consulted about erectile dysfunction (ED).

AIM

To assess pharmacists' ability to detect ED and encourage patients to seek medical evaluation.

METHODS

This observational study conducted in Greece and Spain included men without a valid prescription for an ED medication but with a history indicating ED risk and/or who consulted a pharmacist about ED. Pharmacists completed a questionnaire about the patient. Patients completed the Sexual Health Inventory for Men (SHIM); men with a score ≤21 (cutoff for ED) were educated (by case pharmacists) and referred and encouraged to see a physician (by case and control pharmacists).

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

Proportion of men with a SHIM score ≤21 and, of those, the proportion who visited a physician and credited the pharmacist for their visit. ANCOVA and chi-square test were used for continuous and categorical data, respectively.

RESULTS

Among the 451 men (mean ± SD age, 54.9 ± 12.9 years) questioned about ED, 90% had a risk factor (usually hypertension, hypercholesterolemia, or diabetes), 28% had a previous diagnosis, 36% sought internet information, 38% self-medicated, 10% took medication obtained outside the pharmacy setting, and the first health care professional approached was a pharmacist (50%), physician (18%), or nurse (1%) at a median of 6 (range, 0-360) months after symptom onset. The SHIM score was ≤21 in 348 (77%) men. A lower score (indicating increased ED severity) was associated with increased age and with benign prostate hyperplasia, depression, diabetes, or prostate cancer. In the minority of men contacted for follow-up, less than one-third had visited their physician, despite pharmacist encouragement.

CONCLUSIONS

Pharmacists are often the first health care contact regarding ED and are highly accurate in its detection. Further research is needed to optimize the pharmacist's role in early detection, education, and motivating patients to be evaluated by a physician.

Erectile dysfunction and lower urinary tract symptoms: a consensus on the importance of co-diagnosis

Despite differences in design, many large epidemiological studies using well-powered multivariate analyses consistently provide overwhelming evidence of a link between erectile dysfunction (ED) and lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS). Preclinical evidence suggests that several common pathophysiological mechanisms are involved in the development of both ED and LUTS. We recommend that patients seeking consultation for one condition should always be screened for the other condition. We propose that co-diagnosis would ensure that patient management accounts for all possible co-morbid and associated conditions. Medical, socio-demographic and lifestyle risk factors can help to inform diagnoses and should be taken into consideration during the initial consultation. Awareness of risk factors may alert physicians to patients at risk of ED or LUTS and so allow them to manage patients accordingly; early diagnosis of ED in patients with LUTS, for example, could help reduce the risk of subsequent cardiovascular disease. Prescribing physicians should be aware of the sexual adverse effects of many treatments currently recommended for LUTS; sexual function should be evaluated prior to commencement of treatment, and monitored throughout treatment to ensure that the choice of drug is appropriate.

Cardiovascular risk factors in men with ischemic heart disease and erectile dysfunction

OBJECTIVE

To study the prevalence of cardiovascular risk factors in men with ischemic heart disease (IHD) and erectile dysfunction (ED).

METHODS

We studied cardiovascular risk factors in men with IHD and ED, who undergo coronary angiography. All men filled the Sexual Health Inventory for Males questionnaire (SHIM). SHIM questionnaire scores between 17 and 21 represented mild ED. SHIM questionnaire scores of 16 or lower represented significant ED. Cardiovascular risk factors included the following: age, diabetes mellitus, hypertension, smoking, hyperlipidemia, left ventricular ejection fraction ≤30%, and 3-vessel disease. Binary regression analysis was used to study which cardiovascular risk factors were independently associated with ED.

RESULTS

The study included 171 men. Mean age was 64.2 ± 12.6 years. Overall, 61 men (35.7%) had mild ED and 80 men (46.8%) had significant ED. More than half of men (n = 101; 59.1%) had 3 or more cardiovascular risk factors. Age was the only cardiovascular risk factor independently associated with significant ED (odds ratio 1.154; 95% confidence interval 1.081-1.232; P <.0001). No cardiovascular risk factors were independently associated with mild ED.

CONCLUSION

ED and its cardiovascular risk factors are highly prevalent in men with IHD. However, only age is independently associated with significant ED in this population.

Erectile dysfunction and cardiovascular disease

The link between erectile dysfunction (ED) and cardiovascular disease (CVD) is reviewed by assessing original papers, current consensus, previous reviews and meta-analyses. The link between these conditions is confirmed, and the evaluation and assessment summarised with a new evidence-based algorithm. ED, especially in younger men, is a marker of an increased risk of CVD, and ED needs to be incorporated into all risk-screening programmes.

Erectile dysfunction in general medicine

Erectile dysfunction (ED) affects millions of men worldwide with implications that go far beyond sexual activity. ED is now recognised as an early marker of cardiovascular disease, diabetes mellitus (DM) and depression. The risk factors that are associated with ED (sedentary lifestyle, obesity, smoking, hypercholesterolaemia and the metabolic syndrome) are very similar to those for cardiovascular disease (CVD). Arguably, the awareness of ED as a symptomatic entity in the post-Viagra™ age is on the rise. Nevertheless, ED is commonly missed when evaluating patients in the hospital setting, either because of lack of consideration or awareness, or through simple embarrassment (of both clinician and patient). This article provides an overview of the aetiology, assessment and importance of ED and hopes to promote its consideration in day-to-day clinical practice.

Hemodynamic effect of avanafil and glyceryl trinitrate coadministration

A Phase I, double-blind, randomized, crossover study in healthy males (N=106) was conducted between March 21, 2004, and May 17, 2004, to determine the magnitude and duration of the hemodynamic interaction of avanafil (a phosphodiesterase type-5 inhibitor for treating males with erectile dysfunction) when coadministered with glyceryl trinitrate (NTG) compared with sildenafil and placebo. Subjects received avanafil (200 mg), sildenafil (100 mg), and placebo (on separate days) via the oral route followed by NTG (0.4 mg) 12, 8, 4, 1, or 0.5 hours post-dose via the sublingual route. Blood pressure (BP) and heart rate (HR) were assessed at defined intervals.

Throughout the study (after administration of the study drug, and including the period after NTG administration), the effects of avanafil and sildenafil on BP and HR were significantly greatest overall, at the shortest (0.5-hour) time interval compared with placebo. By the 8- and 12-hour time intervals, no significant difference in BP or HR was observed for avanafil (8 and 12 hours) or sildenafil (12 hours) (p>0.05, compared with placebo). Compared with avanafil, sildenafil had a significantly greater effect when dosed 0.5 hours before NTG on standing HR (p=0.05); 1 hour before NTG on standing systolic blood pressure (SBP) (p<0.05), sitting SBP (p=0.01) and standing HR (p<0.01); and 12 hours before NTG on standing SBP (p=0.05). Throughout the study, symptomatic hypotension adverse events occurred in 27%, 29%, and 12%, and clinically significant reductions in standing SBP (≥30 mmHg) occurred in 15%, 29%, and 12% of subjects dosed with avanafil, sildenafil, and placebo, respectively (overall treatment differences: p<0.01 and p<0.05, respectively).

These data show that avanafil and sildenafil have no significant effect on BP and HR if administered to healthy males ≥8 hours (avanafil) or ≥12 hours (sildenafil) before a sublingual dose of NTG. However, results may differ in populations with known vascular disease, especially those using other concurrent pharmacotherapy. These findings may be of interest to clinicians who treat patients with erectile dysfunction and who also have a cardiovascular condition. Of note, the applicability of these results in such patients may be limited because the enrollment comprised healthy, normal subjects.

Erectile dysfunction severity as a risk marker for cardiovascular disease hospitalisation and all-cause mortality: a prospective cohort study

BACKGROUND

Erectile dysfunction is an emerging risk marker for future cardiovascular disease (CVD) events; however, evidence on dose response and specific CVD outcomes is limited. This study investigates the relationship between severity of erectile dysfunction and specific CVD outcomes.

METHODS AND FINDINGS

We conducted a prospective population-based Australian study (the 45 and Up Study) linking questionnaire data from 2006-2009 with hospitalisation and death data to 30 June and 31 Dec 2010 respectively for 95,038 men aged ≥45 y. Cox proportional hazards models were used to examine the relationship of reported severity of erectile dysfunction to all-cause mortality and first CVD-related hospitalisation since baseline in men with and without previous CVD, adjusting for age, smoking, alcohol consumption, marital status, income, education, physical activity, body mass index, diabetes, and hypertension and/or hypercholesterolaemia treatment. There were 7,855 incident admissions for CVD and 2,304 deaths during follow-up (mean time from recruitment, 2.2 y for CVD admission and 2.8 y for mortality). Risks of CVD and death increased steadily with severity of erectile dysfunction. Among men without previous CVD, those with severe versus no erectile dysfunction had significantly increased risks of ischaemic heart disease (adjusted relative risk [RR] = 1.60, 95% CI 1.31-1.95), heart failure (8.00, 2.64-24.2), peripheral vascular disease (1.92, 1.12-3.29), "other" CVD (1.26, 1.05-1.51), all CVD combined (1.35, 1.19-1.53), and all-cause mortality (1.93, 1.52-2.44). For men with previous CVD, corresponding RRs (95% CI) were 1.70 (1.46-1.98), 4.40 (2.64-7.33), 2.46 (1.63-3.70), 1.40 (1.21-1.63), 1.64 (1.48-1.81), and 2.37 (1.87-3.01), respectively. Among men without previous CVD, RRs of more specific CVDs increased significantly with severe versus no erectile dysfunction, including acute myocardial infarction (1.66, 1.22-2.26), atrioventricular and left bundle branch block (6.62, 1.86-23.56), and (peripheral) atherosclerosis (2.47, 1.18-5.15), with no significant difference in risk for conditions such as primary hypertension (0.61, 0.16-2.35) and intracerebral haemorrhage (0.78, 0.20-2.97).

CONCLUSIONS

These findings give support for CVD risk assessment in men with erectile dysfunction who have not already undergone assessment. The utility of erectile dysfunction as a clinical risk prediction tool requires specific testing.

Impaired masturbation-induced erections: a new cardiovascular risk factor for male subjects with sexual dysfunction

INTRODUCTION

Erectile dysfunction (ED) is considered an early surrogate marker of silent, or even overt, cardiovascular diseases (CVD). However, epidemiological studies take into account only sexual intercourse-related erections. Although autoeroticism is a very common practice, data on masturbation-induced erections as a possible predictor of major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE) are lacking.

AIM

To evaluate the clinical correlates of impaired masturbation-induced erections and to verify the importance of this sexual aspect in predicting MACE.

METHODS

A consecutive series of 4,031 male patients attending the Outpatient Clinic for sexual dysfunction for the first time was retrospectively studied. Among these subjects, 64% reported autoeroticism during the last 3 months, and only this subset was considered in the following analyses. In the longitudinal study, 862 subjects reporting autoeroticism were enrolled.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

Several clinical, biochemical, and instrumental (Prostaglandin E1 [PGE1 ] test and penile color Doppler ultrasound) parameters were studied.

RESULTS

Subjects with an impaired erection during masturbation (46% of those reporting autoeroticism) had more often a positive personal or family history of CVD, a higher risk of reduced intercourse- and sleep-related erections, hypoactive sexual desire and perceived reduced ejaculate volume, and impaired PGE1 test response. Prolactin levels were lower in those having impaired erection during masturbation. In the longitudinal study, unadjusted incidence of MACE was significantly associated with impaired masturbation-induced erections. When dividing the population according to the median age and diagnosis of diabetes, the association between impaired masturbation-induced erections and incidence of MACE was maintained only in the youngest (<55 years old) and in nondiabetic subjects, even after adjusting for confounders (hazard ratio [HR] = 3.348 [1.085-10.335], P = 0.032 and HR = 2.108 [1.002-4.433], P = 0.049; respectively).

CONCLUSION

This study indicates that, in subjects with male sexual dysfunction, evaluating an often neglected sexual parameter, such as masturbation-induced erections, can provide further insights on forthcoming MACE in particular in "low risk" subjects.

Erectile dysfunction precedes and is associated with severity of coronary artery disease among Asian Indians

INTRODUCTION

Erectile dysfunction (ED) and coronary artery disease (CAD) often share common risk factors, and there is growing evidence that ED might serve as a clinical marker for cardiovascular disease. Despite rising trends of CAD in Asian Indians, limited data are available on the prevalence of ED and its correlation with CAD severity in such patients.

AIM

To study the prevalence of ED in Asian Indian patients undergoing coronary angiography and to assess if the severity of ED correlates with angiographic severity of CAD.

METHODS

In all patients undergoing coronary angiography, ED was assessed using the International Index of Erectile Function-5 questionnaire.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES AND RESULTS

Among 175 male patients, ED was present in 70%; patients with ED had a higher incidence of multivessel CAD (80% vs. 36%, P 0.001), diffuse CAD (81% vs. 34%, P 0.001), and higher number of mean coronary vessels involved compared with those without ED. Those with severe ED had higher prevalence of multivessel CAD and higher number of mean coronary vessels involved compared with those with milder grades of ED. Onset of symptoms of ED preceded symptoms of CAD by a mean of 24.6 months in 84% of patients. The presence of severe ED was associated with a 21-fold higher risk of having triple-vessel disease (odds ratio [OR] 21.94, 95% confidence interval [CI] 3.41-141.09, P = 0.001) and an 18-fold higher risk of having diffuse angiographic CAD (OR 17.91, 95% CI 3.11-111.09, P = 0.001).

CONCLUSION

Asian Indians with angiographic CAD frequently have ED; symptoms of ED precede that of CAD in most patients. Incidence of multivessel and diffuse CAD is significantly more common in patients with ED. It is important for physicians to be aware of the close relationship between the two conditions so that patients with ED can have optimal risk stratification for concomitant CAD whenever required.

Male reproductive health disorders among Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander men: a hidden problem?

OBJECTIVE

To better understand help-seeking behaviours and reproductive health disorders among Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander men.

DESIGN, SETTING AND PARTICIPANTS

A cross-sectional mixed-methods study conducted from 1 May 2004 to 30 April 2005 of 293 Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander men aged 18 years and over from urban, rural and remote communities in the Northern Territory and Queensland.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

Subscale of the International Index of Erectile Function, self-reported help-seeking behaviours for erectile dysfunction (ED) and prostate disease, thematic analysis of semi-structured interviews and focus groups.

RESULTS

The prevalence of moderate-to-severe ED increased across age groups, from about 10% in younger men (under 35 years) to 28% in men aged 55-74 years. Moderate-to-severe ED was strongly associated with reporting a chronic condition (odds ratio [OR], 3.67) and residing in a remote area (OR, 2.94). Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander men aged 40-59 years showed similar low levels of help-seeking behaviours compared with non-Indigenous men from a comparable population-based study. About half of the men with ED saw a doctor or received treatment for ED in each population. While prostate cancer rates were low in both studies, testing for prostate problems was less frequent in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander men (11.4%) than in non-Indigenous men (34.1%, P < 0.001), despite similar levels of concern about prostate cancer. Barriers to help-seeking included shame, culturally inappropriate services and lack of awareness.

CONCLUSION

This study, the first to investigate reproductive health of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander men, found low levels of help-seeking behaviours for reproductive health disorders, with implications for missing a predictor of chronic disease and late diagnosis of prostate disease.

Erectile dysfunction

Erectile dysfunction is a common clinical entity that affects mainly men older than 40 years. In addition to the classical causes of erectile dysfunction, such as diabetes mellitus and hypertension, several common lifestyle factors, such as obesity, limited or an absence of physical exercise, and lower urinary tract symptoms, have been linked to the development of erectile dysfunction. Substantial steps have been taken in the study of the association between erectile dysfunction and cardiovascular disease. Erectile dysfunction is a strong predictor for coronary artery disease, and cardiovascular assessment of a non-cardiac patient presenting with erectile dysfunction is now recommended. Substantial advances have occurred in the understanding of the pathophysiology of erectile dysfunction that ultimately led to the development of successful oral therapies, namely the phosphodiesterase type 5 inhibitors. However, oral phosphodiesterase type 5 inhibitors have limitations, and present research is thus investigating cutting-edge therapeutic strategies including gene and cell-based technologies with the aim of discovering a cure for erectile dysfunction.

Prediction of cardiovascular events and all-cause mortality with erectile dysfunction: a systematic review and meta-analysis of cohort studies

BACKGROUND

Erectile dysfunction (ED) carries an independent risk for cardiovascular (CV) events. We conducted a meta-analysis of all longitudinal studies for determining the ability of ED to predict risk of clinical events and to dissect factors influencing this ability.

METHODS AND RESULTS

We conducted a comprehensive search of electronic databases through July 2012. Longitudinal studies that reported relative risk (RR) estimates with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were included. Of the 14 studies included (92 757 participants; mean follow-up, 6.1 years; 16 articles), 13 (14 articles) reported results on total CV events (91 831 individuals), 4 on CV mortality (34 761 individuals), 4 on myocardial infarction (35 523 individuals), 6 on cerebrovascular events (27 689 individuals), and 5 on all-cause mortality (17 869 individuals). The pooled RRs for the above-mentioned end points were 1.44 (95% CI, 1.27-1.63), 1.19 (95% CI, 0.97-1.46), 1.62 (95% CI, 1.34-1.96), 1.39 (95% CI, 1.23-1.57), and 1.25 (95% CI, 1.12-1.39), respectively, for men with versus without ED. The RR was higher in intermediate- compared with high- or low-CV-risk populations and with younger age. The RR for studies that diagnosed ED with the use of a questionnaire compared with a single question was higher (RR, 1.61; 95% CI, 1.38-1.86 versus RR, 1.27; 95% CI, 1.18-1.37, respectively; P=0.006).

CONCLUSIONS

ED is associated with increased risk of CV events and all-cause mortality. RR is higher at younger ages, in intermediate-risk groups, and when a questionnaire is used instead of a single question.

The Princeton III Consensus recommendations for the management of erectile dysfunction and cardiovascular disease

The Princeton Consensus (Expert Panel) Conference is a multispecialty collaborative tradition dedicated to optimizing sexual function and preserving cardiovascular health. The third Princeton Consensus met November 8 to 10, 2010, and had 2 primary objectives. The first objective focused on the evaluation and management of cardiovascular risk in men with erectile dysfunction (ED) and no known cardiovascular disease (CVD), with particular emphasis on identification of men with ED who may require additional cardiologic work-up. The second objective focused on reevaluation and modification of previous recommendations for evaluation of cardiac risk associated with sexual activity in men with known CVD. The Panel's recommendations build on those developed during the first and second Princeton Consensus Conferences, first emphasizing the use of exercise ability and stress testing to ensure that each man's cardiovascular health is consistent with the physical demands of sexual activity before prescribing treatment for ED, and second highlighting the link between ED and CVD, which may be asymptomatic and may benefit from cardiovascular risk reduction.

The Princeton III Consensus recommendations for the management of erectile dysfunction and cardiovascular disease

The Princeton Consensus (Expert Panel) Conference is a multispecialty collaborative tradition dedicated to optimizing sexual function and preserving cardiovascular health. The third Princeton Consensus met November 8 to 10, 2010, and had 2 primary objectives. The first objective focused on the evaluation and management of cardiovascular risk in men with erectile dysfunction (ED) and no known cardiovascular disease (CVD), with particular emphasis on identification of men with ED who may require additional cardiologic work-up. The second objective focused on reevaluation and modification of previous recommendations for evaluation of cardiac risk associated with sexual activity in men with known CVD. The Panel's recommendations build on those developed during the first and second Princeton Consensus Conferences, first emphasizing the use of exercise ability and stress testing to ensure that each man's cardiovascular health is consistent with the physical demands of sexual activity before prescribing treatment for ED, and second highlighting the link between ED and CVD, which may be asymptomatic and may benefit from cardiovascular risk reduction.

Sexual dysfunction in men with COPD: impact on quality of life and survival

BACKGROUND

Most patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) are middle-aged or older, and by definition all have a chronic illness. Aging and chronic illness decrease sexual interest, sexual function, and testosterone levels. To date, researchers have not simultaneously explored prevalence, risk factors, and impact of sexual dysfunctions on quality of life and survival in men with COPD. We tested three hypotheses: First, sexual dysfunctions, including erectile dysfunction, are highly prevalent and impact negatively the quality of life of those with COPD. Second, gonadal state is a predictor of erectile dysfunction. Third, erectile dysfunction, a potential maker of systemic atherosclerosis, is a risk factor for mortality in men with COPD.

METHODS

In this prospective study, sexuality was assessed in 90 men with moderate-to-severe COPD (40 hypogonadal) by questionnaire. Testosterone levels, comorbidities, dyspnea, depressive symptoms, and survival (4.8 years median follow-up) were recorded.

RESULTS

Seventy-four percent of patients had at least one sexual dysfunction, with erectile dysfunction being the most common (72 %). Most were dissatisfied with their current and expected sexual function. Severity of COPD was equivalent in patients with and without erectile dysfunction. Low testosterone, depressive symptoms, and presence of partner were independently associated with erectile dysfunction. Severity of lung disease and comorbidities, but not erectile dysfunction, were independently associated with mortality (p = 0.006).

CONCLUSIONS

Sexual dysfunctions, including erectile dysfunction, were highly prevalent and had a negative impact on quality of life in men with COPD. In addition, gonadal state was an independent predictor of erectile dysfunction. Finally, erectile dysfunction was not associated with all-cause mortality.

Sexual functioning among testicular cancer survivors: a case-control study in the U.S

OBJECTIVE

Sexual function among testicular cancer survivors is a concern because affected men are of reproductive age when diagnosed. We conducted a case-control study among United States military men to examine whether testicular cancer survivors experienced impaired sexual function.

METHODS

A total of 246 testicular cancer cases and 236 ethnicity and age matched controls were enrolled in the study in 2008-2009. The Brief Male Sexual Function Inventory (BMSFI) was used to assess sexual function.

RESULTS

Compared to controls, cases scored significantly lower on sex drive (5.77 vs. 5.18), erection (9.40 vs. 8.63), ejaculation (10.83 vs. 9.90), and problem assessment (10.55 vs. 9.54). Cases were significantly more likely to have impaired erection (OR 1.72; 95% CI 1.11-2.64), ejaculation (OR 2.27; 95% CI 1.32-3.91), and problem assessment (OR 2.36; 95% CI 1.43-3.90). In histology and treatment analysis, nonseminoma, chemotherapy and radiation treated cases risk of erectile dysfunction, delayed ejaculation, and/or problem assessment were greater when compared to controls.

CONCLUSION

This study provides evidence that testicular cancer survivors are more likely to have impaired sexual functioning compared to demographically matched controls. The observed impaired sexual functioning appeared to vary by treatment regimen and histologic subtype.

Prognostic utility of erectile dysfunction for cardiovascular disease in younger men and those with diabetes

Multiple published studies have established erectile dysfunction (ED) as an independent risk marker for cardiovascular disease (CVD). In fact, incident ED has a similar or greater predictive value for cardiovascular events than traditional risk factors including smoking, hyperlipidemia, and family history of myocardial infarction. Here, we review evidence that supports ED as a particularly significant harbinger of CVD in 2 populations: men <60 years of age and those with diabetes. Although addition of ED to the Framingham Risk Score only modestly improved the 10-year predictive capacity of the Framingham Risk Score for myocardial infarction or coronary death data in men enrolled in the Massachusetts Male Aging Study, other epidemiologic studies suggest that the predictive value of ED is quite strong in younger men. Indeed, in the Olmstead County Study, men 40 to 49 years of age with ED had a 50-fold higher incidence of new-incident coronary artery disease than those without ED. However, ED had less predictive value (5-fold increased risk) for coronary artery disease in men 70 years and older. Several studies, including a large analysis of more than 6300 men enrolled in the ADVANCE study, suggest that ED is a particularly powerful predictor of CVD in diabetic men as well. Based on the literature reviewed here, we encourage physicians to inquire about ED symptoms in all men more than 30 years of age with cardiovascular risk factors. Identification of ED, particularly in men <60 years old and those with diabetes, represents an important first step toward CVD risk detection and reduction.

Erectile dysfunction and hypertension: impact on cardiovascular risk and treatment

Erectile dysfunction (ED) is a common complaint in hypertensive men and can represent a systemic vascular disease, an adverse effect of antihypertensive medication or a frequent concern that may impair drug compliance. ED has been considered an early marker of cardiovascular disease. The connection between both conditions seems to be located in the endothelium, which may become unable to generate the necessary dilatation in penile vascular bed in response to sexual excitement, producing persistent impairment in erection. On the other hand, the real influence of antihypertensive drugs in erectile function still deserves discussion. Therefore, regardless of ED mechanism in hypertension, early diagnosis and correct approach of sexual life represent an important step of cardiovascular evaluation which certainly contributes for a better choice of hypertension treatment, preventing some complications and restoring the quality of life.

Erectile dysfunction and coronary disease: evaluating the link

Erectile dysfunction (ED) is common, affecting 40% of men over 40 years of age (so-called 40 over 40) and 1 in 3 men over 70 years of age. It is predominantly a vascular condition, often preceding a cardiovascular event by 3-5 years. ED is associated as a consequence with acute coronary syndromes and increased cardiovascular and all-cause mortality. Its early identification therefore offers a window of opportunity for cardiovascular risk reduction. ED has for many a devastating impact on a couple's relationship. Its treatment is often successful, maintaining quality of life in the middle aged and elderly. ED should always be queried as part of the ongoing health care worker and patient relationship - its early detection may prevent early death.

Pharmaco-écho-doppler pénien: méthodologie, critères diagnostiques et indications actuelles dans l’exploration d’une dysfonction érectile

La dysfonction érectile (DE) est une pathologie multifactorielle fréquente, dont l’origine organique ou mixte est considérée actuellement comme dominante chez l’homme après 50 ans. La plupart des DE vasculotissulaires sont liées à une dysfonction endothéliale, en relation avec les principaux facteurs de risque cardiovasculaires (FRCV). La DE représente un indicateur de la santé vasculaire en général. Elle est aussi prédictive d’événements cardiovasculaires (ECV), notamment de coronaropathies. Elle a également été associée aux artériopathies des membres inférieurs et aux accidents vasculaires cérébraux. Le pharmaco-écho-doppler pénien (PEDP) est un examen assez peu utilisé aujourd’hui dans la prise en charge d’une DE, la recherche étiologique n’étant encore le plus souvent pas considérée comme nécessaire à la prise en charge thérapeutique, mais également en raison de l’absence de standardisation. Cependant, de nombreuses publications ont mis récemment en évidence que l’origine vasculotissulaire d’une DE, établie sur des critères vélocimétriques enregistrés après injection intracaverneuse (IIC) de substances vasoactives, renforçait la valeur prédictive de la DE concernant les événements et la mortalité cardiovasculaires (CV), justifiant un intérêt accru pour réaliser cet examen.

Men's health in primary care: an emerging paradigm of sexual function and cardiometabolic risk

An office evaluation of men's health in primary care requires a thorough understanding of the implications of male sexual dysfunctions, hypogonadism, and cardiometabolic risk stratification and aggressive risk management. The paradigm of the men's health office visit in primary care is the recognition and assessment of male sexual dysfunction, specifically erectile dysfunction, and its value as a signal of overall cardiometabolic health, including the emerging evidence linking low testosterone and the metabolic syndrome. Indeed, erectile dysfunction may now be thought of as a harbinger of cardiovascular clinical events and other systemic vascular diseases in some men.

Evaluation of endothelial function with brachial artery ultrasound in men with or without erectile dysfunction and classified as intermediate risk according to the Framingham Score

INTRODUCTION

Flow-mediated vasodilation (FMD) of the brachial artery is a noninvasive tool used for endothelial function evaluation. There is increasing evidence that endothelial dysfunction is a common etiological factor for erectile dysfunction (ED) and cardiovascular events.

AIM

To evaluate endothelial function with a high-resolution ultrasound device, to assess FMD in men diagnosed with ED and without clinical evidence of significant atherosclerotic disease, classified as "intermediate risk" according to the Framingham risk score (FRS).

METHODS

This is a case-control study that included 52 consecutive men. In all men with ED evaluated by a score less than 22 on International Index of Erectile Function-5 questionnaire (IIEF-5), clinical parameters such as blood pressure, waist circumference, hip circumference, body mass index, lipid profile, fasting glucose, and serum total testosterone were obtained. These parameters were compared with those men without diagnosis of ED (IIEF-5 score≥22) (age-matched, also classified as "intermediate risk" according to the FRS). All underwent brachial artery ultrasound for assessment of FMD, as a noninvasive method to evaluate endothelial function. Statistical analysis was performed considering a P<0.05.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

Endothelium-dependent FMD was evaluated in the right brachial artery with a high-resolution ultrasound machine following reactive hyperemia.

RESULTS

Thirty-four men were included in the ED group, and 18 were included in the group without ED. The mean ages were 59.61±9.87 and 56.18±10.93, respectively (P=0.27). Clinical and laboratory evaluations were similar between men with and without ED (P>0.05) except for waist circumference that was greater in patients with ED (mean=100.85 cm vs. 96.05; P<0.05). The percentage of FMD was higher in men without ED when compared with those with ED (mean FMD 11.33±6.08% vs. 4.24±7.06%, respectively; P=0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

Men without established atherosclerotic disease presenting with ED demonstrated a worse endothelial function.

Effect of vascular burden as measured by vascular indexes upon vascular dementia: a matched case-control study

Background

Vascular dementia (VaD) is a challenging illness that affects the lives of older adults and caregivers. It is unclear how multiple vascular risk factor exposures (polyvascular disease) affect VaD.

Purpose

To determine the relationship between multiple vascular risk exposures, as counted on an index in cases with VaD, compared with healthy age-/gender-matched controls.

Methods

This was a matched case-control study of subjects living in Olmsted County, MN with documented VaD. Controls were selected by gender and age within 3 years from those who did not have dementia. The exposures included a total index (eleven exposure factors) added together, along with indexes for cerebrovascular disease (two exposures), cardiovascular disease (four exposures), vascular disease (three exposures), and lifestyle (two exposures). Analysis used matched conditional univariable logistic regression for each index.

Results

A total of 1736 potential subjects were identified, and 205 subjects were diagnosed with VaD. There was a significant association of the total score index with an odds ratio of 1.45 (95% confidence interval 1.21–1.74). The cerebrovascular index was also associated with VaD with an odds ratio of 12.18 (95% confidence interval 6.29–23.61). The cardiovascular and vascular indexes were also associated with VaD status. The lifestyle index was not associated with VaD.

Conclusion

The cumulative role of multiple vascular risk factors or diseases increased the risk of VaD, as noted by the total vascular index. The lifestyle index did not reveal any significant differences. Further work is required for evaluation of these indexes.

Are early and current erectile problems associated with anxiety and depression in young men? A retrospective self-report study

Erectile dysfunction (ED) has been extensively studied in the past few decades, and significant advances have been made in understanding its etiology. Most cases of this type of dysfunction have an organic etiology, and ED occurs primarily in older men. However, relatively little is known about erectile problems in young men or about the interconnection between psychiatric symptoms and ED etiology. In this study, the authors investigated ED symptoms in a large, population-based sample of 18-48-year-old men. Participants reported ED symptoms from their first intercourse experience as well as those occurring at present. The authors assessed the association between reported ED symptoms during early partnered sexual experiences and present ED symptoms. Furthermore, the authors investigated associations between age, symptoms of anxiety and depression, and erectile problems. Results indicated that age was a significant predictor of ED problems already in young age groups. ED problems were prevalent to a much higher extent during early sexual intercourse experiences and appeared to pass with time for most men. Anxiety and depression were significant predictors of present erectile problems. Implications of the results and potential limitations were discussed.

Men's health: sexual dysfunction, physical, and psychological health--is there a link?

INTRODUCTION

Sexual dysfunction in men, such as erectile dysfunction, hypogonadism, and premature ejaculation, generates considerable attention. Its association with physical and psychological health is an issue which should be addressed seriously.

AIM

A review of the literature pertaining to the correlation between sexual dysfunction and physical and psychological health.

METHODS

PubMed search for relevant publications on the association between sexual dysfunction in men and physical and psychological health.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE

Clinical and epidemiological evidence that demonstrates the association between sexual dysfunction in men and physical and psychological health.

RESULTS

Sexual dysfunction, i.e., erectile dysfunction, hypogonadism, and premature ejaculation, has been shown to be associated with physical and psychological health. There is a strong correlation between sexual dysfunction and cardiovascular disease, metabolic syndrome, quality of life, and depression.

CONCLUSION

The association between men's sexual dysfunction and physical and psychological health is real and proven. Therefore, it should not be taken lightly but instead treated as a life-threatening medical problem.