Adelaide researchers are calling for general practitioners to take a more proactive approach towards addressing erectile dysfunction (ED) and lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS), in light of new findings suggesting these conditions may be linked to underlying cardiometabolic disorders. A study , recently published in the Journal of Men's Health , led by the University of Adelaide's Professor Gary Wittert and Dr. Sam Tafari from SA Health, highlighted the importance of screening for urinary symptoms in men.
Professor Wittert, who's also the Director of the Freemason's Center for Male Health and Wellbeing (FCMHW) at SAHMRI, said erectile dysfunction and nocturia (getting up at night to urinate) are red flags for the presence of co-existing heart problems , including a heightened risk of heart attacks. "These are troublesome conditions that both damage self-esteem and reduce quality of life. Nocturia causes sleep disruption and erectile dysfunction has adverse effects on intimate relationships ," said Professor Wittert.
"Left untreated, they get worse and that makes them harder to fix. "By addressing these symptoms, health care practitioners can better identify and treat underlying cardiometabolic problems early, potentially reducing morbidity and mortality among men." Dr.
Tafari said about 70% of men with nocturia also have ED. "Although we want GPs to routinely ask about these symptoms, it's also crucial for men to understand the significance of these issues and seek help when.