16 July 2010
Depressed men with impotence face serious heart problems
Men who have difficulty getting an erection and who show signs of depression are more likely to have a serious heart problem, according to new research.
Researchers from the University of Florence interviewed over 2,300 men attending the out-patients clinic for sexual dysfunction about their sexual and psychological health. Participants were asked to complete a self-reporting questionnaire to screen for anxiety and depressive symptoms.
The researchers collected information about the men's medical history and use of any medicines. All participants had a complete physical examination including blood tests and an ultrasound scan to assess blood flow in their penis.
The men were followed for an average of four years. During this time, 139 men had major heart problems, 15 of which were fatal.
Results from the study show a link between severe symptoms of depression and increased risk of heart problems. This is the same when other risk factors, such as impaired blood flow to the penis, are taken into account. The use of antidepressant medicines didn't affect the relationship between severe depressive symptoms and serious heart problems.
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Dr Peter Mace, Assistant Medical Director, Bupa |
The study indicates the importance of considering the whole person when looking at issues of erectile dysfunction. 
Depression is a state of low mood and a loss of interest in everyday activities. Erectile dysfunction (ED) and depression are often linked, and both are related to an increased risk of heart disease and death.
The researchers highlighted a number of limitations to their study - the small sample size and the fact that these men were seeking specialist treatment for ED. These men may have had different characteristics to men who are treated by a GP alone, or who don't seek medical care for ED. The researchers also note that they weren't able to accurately diagnose whether or not the men had depression.
They concluded that doctors who treat men with ED should screen their patients for depression. Men showing symptoms of depression should be monitored more regularly for heart disease.
Commenting on the research, Dr Peter Mace, Assistant Medical Director for Bupa, said: "The study indicates the importance of considering the whole person when looking at issues of erectile dysfunction. It also emphasises that men seeking a prescription for medicines for erectile dysfunction should obtain this only after consultation with a medical professional, to ensure that other problems aren't missed. Buying these medicines over the internet is unwise, and may be dangerous.
"At Bupa we offer a supplementary erectile dysfunction check in our Health Assessments. This looks at the possible causes of erectile dysfunction. We also provide advice and treatment to help overcome any issues."
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Related topics
- Depression - health factsheet
- Impotence - health factsheet
- Looking after your heart - health factsheet
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Read the study
Bandini E, Fisher AD, Corona G, et al. Severe depressive symptoms and cardiovascular risk in subjects with erectile dysfunction. J Sexual Med 2010 doi: 10.1111/j.1743-6109.2010.01936.x
