Study: Erectile dysfunction is a risk factor for heart disease

A new study suggests that erectile dysfunction (ED) isn’t just a sexual problem. Researchers say it’s a major risk factor for heart disease and early death as well.

The study involved more than 1,500 male cardiovascular patients from 13 different countries. The participants were followed over a five-year period.

Researchers say men with ED and heart disease were nearly two times more likely to die from their cardiovascular disease than men without ED. They were also twice as likely to have a heart attack.

The study’s lead author said that most ED patients are treated for impotence, but not for underlying cardiovascular problems.

“Men with ED going to a general practitioner or a urologist need to be referred for a cardiology workup to determine existing cardiovascular disease and proper treatment,” said the study’s lead author, Dr. Michael Bohm. “ED is an early predictor of cardiovascular disease.”

Bohm also said that ED should be viewed by the medical community as a risk factor for heart disease, like hypertension and high cholesterol.