Content

Welcome to the CJU website » LOG IN

Details

Erectile dysfunction for primary care providers
Aug  2008 (Vol.  15, Issue  41, Pages( 63 - 70)
PMID: 18700067

Abstract

Text-Size + 

  • INTRODUCTION:

    Erectile dysfunction (ED) affects more than half of men between the ages of 40 and 70 years and is associated with a significant decline in quality of life. ED in an otherwise healthy man should be considered a sentinel event for endothelial dysfunction and cardiovascular disease. Such a person should be carefully evaluated for undiagnosed risk factors including hypertension, diabetes, lipid disorders, and obesity.

    OBJECTIVE:

    To understand that erectile dysfunction is prevalent and may be the first sign of undiagnosed cardiovascular risk factors.

    MATERIALS AND METHODS:

    Literature review.

    RESULTS:

    Current literature suggests that physicians should screen all men for ED, and if present, rule out concomitant cardiovascular risk factors.

    CONCLUSION:

    ED is prevalent and may be the first sign of undiagnosed cardiovascular risk factors. With the advent of safe and effective phosphodiesterase type-5 inhibitors (PDE-5i), most patients reporting dissatisfaction with erectile function can start treatment right away. Preventative care algorithms should include screening men 40 years of age or older for ED.