Depression a risk factor for ED in diabetic men

NEW YORK, Jan 16 (Reuters) Among men with type two diabetes, depressive symptoms represent the most important factor contributing to the risk of erectile dysfunction (ED), according to investigators in Italy and in California. Other modifiable risk factors also play a part, they report.

In fact, the authors point out, there appears to be a vicious cycle, in which depression may instigate the development of ED, while the ED symptoms perpetuate the symptoms of depression. Thus, ED in diabetic patients is not related entirely to organic factors.

Dr Antonio Nicolucci, from Consorzio Mario Negri Sud in S Maria Imbaro in Italy, and his associates point out that, as the incidence of diabetes grows, prevention of ED will require strategies that address modifiable risk factors.

For their study, they had men with type two diabetes complete questionnaires every six months for three years. Five hundred men reported ED at the start of the study, and an additional 192 developed the disorder during follow-up.

The investigators noted higher prevalence of high blood pressure (46 per cent versus 32 per cent) and lipid abnormalities (23 per cent versus 13 per cent) among men who complained of ED.

Other characteristics linked with the development of ED were older age, longer duration of diabetes, worse metabolic control, and history of smoking. The researchers also observed higher incidence of the eye disease retinopathy, the nerve disease neuropathy or heart and vascular disease in ED sufferers. Those with ED were more likely to be treated with insulin or diuretics.

As noted, organic causes were not the only issues associated with increased risk. Depression as well as poor physical and psychological well being were also associated with erectile problems.

Summing up, Nicolucci and his associates note, ''erectile problems are not necessarily an inevitable outcome of the aging process since they are also related to modifiable risk factors such as poor metabolic control and cigarette smoking'' and total cholesterol levels.

Reuters BDP GC0904