IT’S a fact that men have a shorter life expectancy than women, with their cause of death usually attributed to preventable disease.
These include heart disease, obesity and type 2 diabetes – and now a study has now suggested two common conditions could be red flags for these conditions.
Professor Gary Wittert jointly-led the University of Adelaide study and said erectile dysfunction and lower urinary tract symptoms, like nocturia – that’s peeing at night – could signal coexisting heart problems and an increased risk of heart attacks.
He said ED and nocturia “are troublesome conditions that both damage self-esteem and reduce quality of life”.
He added: “Nocturia causes sleep disruption and erectile dysfunction has adverse effects on intimate relationships.
“By addressing these symptoms, healthcare practitioners can better identify and treat underlying cardiometabolic problems early, potentially reducing morbidity and mortality among men.”
According to a 2021 study published in BJU International, erectile dysfunction now affects up to one in five men across the UK.
And a 2022 study found men with erectile dysfunction were more likely to have at least one chronic health condition than men without.
The prevalence of LUTS increases with age. According to an EpiLUTS study, 72.3 per cent of men in the UK have symptoms.
The study’s other leader, Sam Tafari, said: “Although we want GPs to routinely ask about these symptoms, it’s also crucial for men to understand the significance of these issues and seek help when they notice them.
“If men don’t understand the significance of their symptoms, they may opt to take a wait and see approach.”
The study also suggested young men were likely to avoid seeking treatment for ED because they thought it would spontaneously resolve.
Also, that older men accepted ED as a natural part of ageing.
The researchers said they hope to focus on these conditions as entry points for engaging men in healthcare by raising awareness about what these symptoms could mean.
Professor Wittert said: “Failure to seek or receive appropriate care represents a lost opportunity for prevention, diagnosis, and remediation of chronic disease.
“We’re encouraging GPs to ask their male patients about the presence of erectile dysfunction and nocturia, and respond accordingly.
“Experts say men shoulder a disproportionate burden of chronic disease and have poorer outcomes from most chronic disorders.
“Routinely asking about erectile function and nocturia provides an opportunity to improve quality of life and mitigate health risks.”
Erectile dysfunction is very common in men over 40. The NHS advises what to look out for:
Stress, tiredness, or drinking too much alcohol can cause erectile dysfunction.
If it keeps on happening, it could be related to a condition, such as high blood pressure or high cholesterol, diabetes, depression or anxiety, or hormone problems.
If erection problems keep happening, see a GP or go to a sexual health clinic.
