Erectile dysfunction (ED) is the inability of a man to achieve or maintain an erection sufficient for his sexual needs or the needs of his partner.
Causes
The prevalence of erectile dysfunction is higher in men with heart and vascular disease due to the presence of a range of risk factors such as diabetes mellitus, obesity, hyperlipidaemia, hypertension, atherosclerosis and smoking. These factors account for about 70% of ED causes. Between 35% and 50% of men with diabetes experience ED.
Related: Diabetes - Are You at Risk?
Some of the medicines such as anti-depressants, beta-blockers and diuretics may aggravate ED as well. Any heart disease patient who has ED (or sexual problems) should consult a physician.
Sexual dysfunction can also occur in females and there are multiple causes for it.
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