The Circle of Lifestyle and Erectile Dysfunction

Abstract

Introduction: Erectile dysfunction (ED) has been significantly associated with many chronic conditions including obesity, the metabolic syndrome, hypogonadism, diabetes mellitus, cardiovascular disease (CVD), lower urinary tract symptoms, and psychiatric/psychological disorders. ED is also a well-established predictor of CVD.

Aim: This review will focus on the association of ED with cardiovascular, metabolic, and cognitive conditions and discuss the effects of managing lifestyle factors in order to reduce the burden of ED and consequently outcomes in patients with chronic conditions.

Methods: A literature search using Medline, PubMed (U.S. National Library of Medicine and the National Institutes of Health), and abstracts from scientific meetings was performed from 1990.

Main outcome measures: Main outcome measures were improvements in sexual function.

Results: A total of 59 reviews on the topic were evaluated.

Conclusions: Targeting several lifestyle factors associated with CVD/metabolic/cognitive disorders, e.g., smoking, alcohol consumption, obesity, and physical activity, can have significant benefits, leading to an improvement in ED as well as testosterone levels and consequently CVD. Kirby M. The circle of lifestyle and erectile dysfunction. Sex Med Rev 2015;3:169-182.

Keywords: Cardiovascular; Erectile Dysfunction; Lifestyle.