A study published last year found that two-thirds of diabetic men also have erectile dysfunction (ED). While ED can be treated with effective drugs that are cheap to buy online, such as sildenafil, it’s important to address any hidden underlying causes, including diabetes and prediabetes.
This is often assumed to be a problem that only affects older men, but new research suggests that younger men are at an increasing risk. Here’s a look at the link between the two conditions, and the importance of early intervention.
Understanding prediabetes
A new study by Diabetes UK has found that one in five adults in the UK now live with diabetes or prediabetes. This has been described as a ‘hidden health crisis’ by the charity, as the numbers are at a record high, up from 200,000 compared to the same time last year.
As well as the 4.6 million people who have an official diabetes diagnosis, it is estimated that 6.3 million people are living with non-diabetic hyperglycemia, more commonly known as prediabetes. This where blood glucose levels are higher than normal, but not yet high enough to be classified as type 2 diabetes.
If high glucose levels are left unregulated, it can lead to full-blown diabetes and a range of other serious health problems, including erectile dysfunction. In the more advanced stages, diabetes can lead to blindness and nerve damage in the feet, which may need to be amputated.
Studies show that diagnoses of type 2 diabetes are increasing worldwide, but at disproportionately higher rates among younger men. This means that they are also more likely to be living with undiagnosed diabetes or prediabetes. Often, there are no obvious signs of a problem in the earlier stages.
Risk factors of pre-diabetes include being overweight; leading a sedentary lifestyle; having a family history of diabetes, and having other health conditions including high blood pressure and high cholesterol.
The link between diabetes and erectile dysfunction
In order to achieve an erection that is strong enough for penetrative sex, the penis requires a healthy blood supply. Chronic high blood sugar damages the blood vessels over time, reducing circulation and making it more difficult to get an erection. Diabetes also affects the nervous system, making it more difficult to respond to sexual arousal.
Being overweight or obese also leads to other health problems that affect sexual function, including hormonal imbalance, increased levels of inflammation and a lowered sex drive.
Call for greater awareness of the risks of diabetes
Colette Marshall, Chief Executive of Diabetes UK said: “These latest figures highlight the hidden health crisis we’re facing in the UK, and underline why the government must act now. There must be better care for the millions of people living with all types of diabetes, to support them to live well and fend off the risk of developing devastating complications.”
“With more people developing prediabetes and type 2 diabetes at a younger age, it’s also critical that much more is done to find the missing millions who either have type 2 diabetes or prediabetes but are completely unaware of it. The sooner we can find and get them the care they need, the more harm we can prevent.”
How can the risk of prediabetes be managed?
Prediabetes can be reversed, particularly if the signs are picked up in the early stages. This is why health problems such as ED should be addressed rather than swept under the carpet. A healthcare professional will be used to discussing the issue, and will only be interested in treating it as well as any underlying causes.
Improving diet and cutting back on processed foods, sugary snacks, and refined carbs will also help to reduce the risk of prediabetes. Regular physical exercise and managing stress are also beneficial for preventing both diabetes and ED.
Anyone who is concerned about their blood sugar levels is advised to seek medical advice straight away, and monitor their glucose with regular check-ups or home testing kits.
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