The relationship between erectile dysfunction and lower urinary tract symptoms: epidemiological, clinical, and basic science evidence

Curr Urol Rep. 2004 Aug;5(4):251-7. doi: 10.1007/s11934-004-0047-1.

Abstract

Lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) and sexual dysfunction are highly prevalent in aging men. Both conditions also are significant contributors to overall quality of life. New data have emerged to indicate potential links in epidemiological, physiologic, pathophysiologic, and treatment aspects of these two entities. There are numerous publications based on sophisticated community and clinical-based data, suggesting a strong and consistent association between LUTS and erectile dysfunction (ED). The association is supported by the consistent linear relationship of more severe LUTS with more severe ED. The link between ED and LUTS has biologic plausibility given the four leading theories of how these diseases inter-relate.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Aged
  • Aged, 80 and over
  • Erectile Dysfunction / drug therapy
  • Erectile Dysfunction / epidemiology
  • Erectile Dysfunction / etiology*
  • Erectile Dysfunction / physiopathology
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Prostatic Hyperplasia / complications
  • Prostatic Hyperplasia / epidemiology
  • Prostatic Hyperplasia / physiopathology
  • Risk
  • Urologic Diseases / complications*
  • Urologic Diseases / drug therapy
  • Urologic Diseases / epidemiology
  • Urologic Diseases / physiopathology