The connection between type 2 diabetes and erectile dysfunction in Taiwanese aboriginal males

Int J Impot Res. 2014 Nov-Dec;26(6):235-40. doi: 10.1038/ijir.2014.26. Epub 2014 Jul 31.

Abstract

Type 2 diabetes mellitus (DM) is a growing global epidemic, especially among aboriginal Taiwanese. This study aimed to identify the relationship between erectile dysfunction (ED), markers of endothelial function, serum testosterone level and type 2 DM in aboriginal Taiwanese. Data were obtained from a baseline survey of 240 aboriginal adults. Their demographic data, presence of type 2 DM, markers of endothelial function, serum testosterone and ED status were assessed. The mean age of the samples was 51.62 ± 7.76 years. The International Index of Erectile Function-5 total score had a mean of 21.99 ± 2.34 and a median of 23; 134 participants had ED (55.8%). The results showed an increased risk of ED for participants with type 2 DM and lower serum testosterone level. Among the predictors of ED, type 2 DM, lower serum free testosterone and high-sensitivity C-reactive protein were significantly independent factors. Interleukin-6 had a negative relationship with ED. The study results suggest there is a strong association between type 2 DM and erectile function among aboriginal Taiwanese that is similar to the general population. This study also supports the idea that type 2 DM, markers of endothelial function and serum testosterone may provide warning signs of ED and, at the same time, an opportunity for early intervention for aboriginal adult male.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Aged
  • Asian People*
  • C-Reactive Protein / metabolism
  • Diabetes Mellitus, Type 2 / ethnology
  • Diabetes Mellitus, Type 2 / physiopathology*
  • Erectile Dysfunction / ethnology
  • Erectile Dysfunction / physiopathology*
  • Health Surveys
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Risk Factors
  • Surveys and Questionnaires
  • Taiwan / epidemiology
  • Testosterone / blood

Substances

  • Testosterone
  • C-Reactive Protein