[Prevalence of co-morbidities in patients with erectile dysfunction]

Erectile dysfunction (ED) is a multifactorial process which requires an integral approach. It is also a sentinel symptom of endothelial dysfunction that opens a door to the overall health of a man.

To analyze the prevalence of cardiovascular risk factors and other disorders in patients with ED. The relationship between the severity of ED and the total serum testosterone level and the therapeutic approach of doctors were also analyzed.

An observational, multicenter, national study in patients > 18 years who came to uroandrology or primary care consultations. Sociodemographic, anthropometric, lifestyle habits and medical history data of patients and the physician's therapeutic approach, were all collected. ED was diagnosed and total testosterone was assessed when necessary.

1340 patients aged from 22-81 years took part in the study. Age was the most prevalent factor to develop the condition. Abdominal obesity, diabetes, and smoking had a high prevalence. Half of the patients presented psychological and/or sexual problems. 33% and 13.5% of patients had suboptimal levels of total testosterone (cut-off point of 12 nmol/l and 8 nmol/l, respectively), with a direct relationship with disease severity.

Our study supports the need to examine cardiovascular risk factors in patients with ED and to identify patients who might benefit from testosterone replacement therapy. Psychological disorders should receive specialized care.