An association between erectile dysfunction and cardiovascular disease has long been recognized, and studies suggest that erectile dysfunction is an independent marker of cardiovascular disease risk. Therefore, assessment and management of erectile dysfunction may help identify and reduce the risk of future cardiovascular events, particularly in younger men.

A number of risk factors are shared by erectile dysfunction and cardiovascular disease, including age, sedentary lifestyle, obesity, smoking, hypercholesterolemia, metabolic syndrome, insulin resistance, hypertension, and diabetes.

Cardiovascular disease is a leading cause of death in men. Erectile dysfunction is a common problem in men as they age and may help drive them to seek medical attention in the absence of other cardiovascular symptoms. The link between erectile dysfunction and cardiovascular disease is well established; however, this relationship has been previously characterized primarily by shared risk factors.

An emerging body of knowledge indicates that erectile dysfunction is, in fact, an independent marker of cardiovascular disease risk. Thus, the presence of erectile dysfunction may provide the opportunity for cardiovascular disease risk mitigation in men with otherwise unrecognized cardiovascular disease.

If you are experiencing erectile dysfunction see your doctor right away to assess the underlying cause.

Source: Erectile Dysfunction and Hearth Health – The American Journal of Medicine