Men’s Health

Underlying health conditions may lead to the result of erectile dysfunction^1,2.

Erectile dysfunction can be a common complication of a variety of medical conditions, lifestyle factors, and clinical treatments. Varying degrees of erectile dysfunction can occur in men, regardless of age or physical condition. Erectile dysfunction is when a man cannot achieve or sustain an erection for intercourse. Over 18 million adult men, in the United States, have erectile dysfunction, and at least 50 percent of men over 50 experience some symptoms associated with ED.

A variety of underlying health conditions may be traced back to ED. Between 30-50% of men who suffer from diabetes, also experience the complication of ED. Along with diabetes, hypertension (high blood pressure), high cholesterol, and cardiovascular disease (heart disease) are among the prominent conditions that may result in the underlying cause of erectile dysfunction. Clinical treatments for types of prostate cancer, including prostate surgery, enlarged prostate, and types of bladder surgery, are all factors that could result in the effect of erectile dysfunction.

​​Among more statistically common health conditions that affect men, other diseases that may result in the complication of ED are metabolic syndrome, nerve disorders (Parkinson’s and MS), and Peyronie’s Disease. Mood disorders (specifically stress, anxiety, and depression), sleep disorders, and hormone problems are all additional clinical factors that can result in the complication of impotency.

As research has shown, erectile dysfunction can be the result of an underlying medical condition, not necessarily a condition in and of itself, or a symptom of other health factors. Clinical and lifestyle factors that may result in the complication of impotency are medications that treat prominent conditions, particularly those for blood pressure, anxiety, and depression, obesity, and risk factors that may include drinking alcohol and smoking.