How often does erectile dysfunction occur in type 2 diabetes?

This study investigated how often erectile dysfunction occurs in men with type 2 diabetes and the factors that may be associated with this. 

Erectile dysfunction (impotence) is the inability to achieve or sustain an erection sufficient for sexual intercourse. Associations have previously been made between erectile dysfunction, type 2 diabetes and obesity. Men with type 2 diabetes tend to develop erectile dysfunction earlier in life and respond less well to treatment. 

This study investigated how often erectile dysfunction occurs in men with type 2 diabetes. The association of erectile dysfunction with glucose (sugar), fat and insulin levels was also examined.  

206 men took part in the study. Blood tests were carried out and the participants were given surveys to examine erectile function.

53% of participants had erectile dysfunction and 47% did not. Men who had HbA1c measurements (indicates blood glucose level of the three months prior to testing) of less than 7% in the two years prior to the study were found to be less likely to have erectile dysfunction. The severity of the dysfunction increased with the length of time HbA1c  was above 7%.

Men who had erectile dysfunction also had higher levels of fat and insulin in the blood, and were more likely to suffer from high blood pressure. 

This study concluded that approximately 53% of men with type 2 diabetes experience erectile dysfunction. An association between erectile dysfunction with higher blood sugar, fat and insulin levels was observed.

The authors of this study stressed that their findings merely show an association between erectile dysfunction with high blood sugar, fat and insulin levels. It cannot be concluded that any of these factors actually lead to this disorder.

Consult your doctor if you are are concerned about the risk of getting erectile dysfunction, especially if you are overweight or have high blood sugar, fat or insulin levels.