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Testosterone is associated with erectile dysfunction: a cross-sectional study in Chinese men
Ming Liao1, Xianghua Huang, Yong Gao
1Institute of Urology and Nephrology, First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, People's Republic of China.
Plos One
|June 28, 2012
Summary
Free testosterone (FT) and bio-available testosterone (BT) are inversely associated with erectile dysfunction (ED). Total testosterone (TT) shows a positive association with ED, likely due to increased sex hormone binding globulin (SHBG).
Area of Science:
- Endocrinology
- Urology
- Men's Health
Background:
- Testosterone plays a crucial role in erectile physiology.
- The precise relationship between low testosterone levels and erectile dysfunction (ED) requires further elucidation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the association between serum total testosterone (TT), free testosterone (FT), and bio-available testosterone (BT) and ED.
- To analyze these associations within a population-based sample of men.
Main Methods:
- A study of 1776 men aged 20-77 in Guangxi, China, assessed ED using the International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF-5).
- Serum levels of TT and sex hormone binding globulin (SHBG) were measured; FT and bio-available testosterone (BT) were calculated.
- Data on lifestyle factors (smoking, alcohol, physical activity) and metabolic syndrome were collected.
Main Results:
- The prevalence of ED was 47.6%. Men with ED were older and more likely to smoke, drink alcohol, or have hypertension or hyperglycemia.
- While total testosterone (TT) showed a non-significant trend with ED severity, it was positively associated after age adjustment.
- Free testosterone (FT) and bio-available testosterone (BT) demonstrated a significant inverse association with ED, independent of lifestyle and metabolic factors.
Conclusions:
- Free testosterone (FT) and bio-available testosterone (BT) levels are inversely related to the severity of erectile dysfunction (ED).
- The observed positive association between total testosterone (TT) and ED is likely influenced by elevated sex hormone binding globulin (SHBG) levels.
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