Open Access

ARTICLE

Erectile dysfunction for primary care providers

James C. Brien, JC Trussell

Department of Surgery, Division of Urology, Penn State Milton S. Hershey Medical Center, Hershey, Pennsylvania, USA
Address correspondence to Dr. JC Trussell, Department of Surgery, Division of Urology, Penn State Milton S. Hershey Medical Center, 500 University Drive, MCH055, Hershey, PA 17033 USA

Canadian Journal of Urology 2008, 15(Suppl.4), 63-70.

Abstract

Introduction: Erectile dysfunction (ED) affects more than half of men between the ages of 40 and 70 years and is associated with a significant decline in quality of life. ED in an otherwise healthy man should be considered a sentinel event for endothelial dysfunction and cardiovascular disease. Such a person should be carefully evaluated for undiagnosed risk factors including hypertension, diabetes, lipid disorders, and obesity.
Objective: To understand that erectile dysfunction is prevalent and may be the first sign of undiagnosed cardiovascular risk factors.
Materials and methods: Literature review.
Results: Current literature suggests that physicians should screen all men for ED, and if present, rule out concomitant cardiovascular risk factors.
Conclusion: ED is prevalent and may be the first sign of undiagnosed cardiovascular risk factors. With the advent of safe and effective phosphodiesterase type-5 inhibitors (PDE-5i), most patients reporting dissatisfaction with erectile function can start treatment right away. Preventative care algorithms should include screening men 40 years of age or older for ED.

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