ERECTILE dysfunction, the disability in men to make sexual relations, can indicate the onset of coronary heart diseases, says a study conducted by professor and head of Urology Department of CMCH, Dr Kim Mammen. 

Dr Mammen did a retrospective and prospective clinical study covering men in the age group of 50-59 years, who are suffering with the dysfunction. It was found that patients with dysfunction showed a significant increased risk of developing heart diseases. ‘‘Data from scientific literature shows that men with heart disease, hypertension or diabetes have four times the risk of developing dysfunction, than men in age-matched controls,’’ he said.

Dr Mammen added that the reasons behind dysfunction and heart diseases too are almost same, which include age, smoking, diabetes, hypertension and excess of lipid content in body. ‘‘In fact many men who take medicines for cardiac problems have a higher tendency to develop the dysfunction,’’ he said.

The doctor recommends that patients with dysfunction should have regular screening on cardiovascular risk factors and take preventive measures. Men between 50-59 years with arterial insufficiency causing erectile dysfunction, which is detected by Penile Doppler test, are especially prone to develop coronary disease.

Dr Mammen suggested that patients with dysfunction should be evaluated by a cardiologist to rule out coronary artery disease. The dysfunction can now be successfully evaluated by newer investigations and more potent medications. Surgical options can also be considered when medications fail, highlighted Dr Mammen.

He added that though male sexual dysfunction is an embarrassing problem that may lower self esteem and confidence, patients should come forward and seek treatment from specialists.

The hospital is organising a continuing medical education programme on male sexual dysfunction on April 1, where experts from all over country will deliver lectures and interact with delegates about various issues related to erectile dysfunction, ejaculatory disturbances, female sexual dysfunction, andrapause or male menopause, surgical and medical treatment for impotence, etc.

The invited faculty for CME programme include former head of PGI Urology Department Prof SK Sharma; head of AIIMS Urology Department Prof NP Gupta; head of Urology Department at Safdarjung Hospital, New Delhi, Prof NK Mohanty; consultant andrologist at Lilawati Hospital Mumbai, Dr Rupin Shah; consultant urologist at Lilawati Hospital Mumbai Dr Vijay Kulkarni; consultant urologist at Apollo Hospital New Delhi Dr Ajit Saxena; head of PGI Urology Department Dr A K Mandal and consultant andrologist at AIIMS, Dr Rajeev Kumar.