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The impact of smoking on sexual function
Mahmoud Mima1, Jason B Huang1, Gerald L Andriole2
1Department of Urology, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA.
BJU International
|February 15, 2022
Summary
Smoking cessation can improve male sexual health. Former smokers reported better erectile function and libido compared to current smokers, indicating smoking cessation benefits sexual well-being.
Area of Science:
- Urology
- Andrology
- Public Health
Background:
- Smoking is a known risk factor for sexual dysfunction.
- Understanding the impact of smoking cessation on male sexual health is crucial.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the association between smoking cessation and sexual function in men.
- To evaluate if quitting smoking improves sexual health outcomes.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of baseline data from 6754 men (aged 50-75) in the REDUCE study.
- Categorization into lifelong non-smokers, former smokers, and current smokers.
- Assessment of total testosterone, sexual activity, libido, and erectile dysfunction (ED).
Main Results:
- Current smokers showed higher total testosterone but also increased low libido and ED compared to non-smokers.
- Former smokers had significantly lower prevalence of low libido and ED than current smokers.
- Sexual activity levels were comparable across smoking groups.
Conclusions:
- Cigarette smoking is linked to poorer sexual health in men.
- Smoking cessation is associated with improved erectile function and libido.
- Counseling on smoking cessation should be considered during sexual health evaluations.
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