| Erectile dysfunction (ED) is a leading indicator of heart attack, according to research presented by Dr. Joel Kaufman of Urology Research Options of Aurora, CO, and Dr. Barry Molk, Aurora Denver Cardiology Associates, at a free seminar sponsored by The Medical Center of Aurora.
"ED can be the first clinical sign of systemic atherosclerosis, which is the hardening of the arteries. If blood flow is restricted to the penis, it is very likely restricted to the heart," said Dr. Kaufman. "All patients with ED should be tested for heart disease risk factors."
Kaufman shared data from numerous clinical studies show that men with ED are nearly twice as likely to suffer from heart disease. In a study of more than 25,000 men:
-- Men with ED had almost twice the risk of heart attack than men without ED
-- Men over age 40 with ED had 3-4 times the risk of heart attack than younger men ages 30-39
Research also shows an increase in the severity of heart disease experienced by men with ED than men without. For example, one study screening 221 men with heart disease for ED found that ED was present in 55% of the patients, and that 43% of the patients with ED had more severe heart disease compared with 17% of heart patients without any signs of ED.
In addition to ED, other critical influencers include diabetes, prostate disease, obesity, and hypertension.
Men presenting heart disease risk factors can take a proactive role in decreasing their likelihood of having a heart attack.
"Even moderate exercise can decrease chances of severe or fatal heart attack," says Dr. Molk. "Any improvement in cardiovascular fitness is associated with a decrease in death due to heart attacks. Just 30 minutes four or five days a week can reduce the risk by 30-50 percent."
Both doctors Kaufman and Molk encourage men to create a proactive plan for maintaining heart health, including assessment of risk factors, review of current literature on heart disease, exercise, and diet. Anyone feeling chest discomfort, cold sweats and nausea concurrently should call 911 immediately. |
