Metabolic Syndrome and Erectile Dysfunction

Abstract

Metabolic syndrome (MetS) is considered a risk factor for erectile dysfunction (ED), and ED is almost three times more prevalent in men with MetS. Vascular pathologies are a significant factor for the development of ED, and many experts suggest endothelial dysfunction (EnD) as a likely explanation for the association between ED and MetS. Studies also show that corporal vascular and trabecular smooth muscle dysfunction leads ultimately to corporal veno-occlusive dysfunction. Different functional system abnormalities, such as nervous degenerations, hormonal insufficiencies, and metabolic factors (e.g., hyperlipidemia, advanced glycation end products), are also likely involved in the pathophysiological pathways. Autonomic neuropathy is also commonly encountered in patients and animal models of MetS. From another perspective, low testosterone levels may be predictive of MetS. Several studies concluded that components of MetS, such as high blood pressure, obesity, hyperinsulinemia, T2DM, hyperglycemia, hypertriglyceridemia, elevated C-Reactive protein, and low HDL levels, were all associated with decreased serum testosterone levels. Lifestyle modification, such as exercise and diet, are the first-line treatment for MetS. Studies have found that a 10% weight loss has been shown to significantly increase IIEF-5 scores. Exercise was also shown to increase endothelial-derived NO and decrease oxidative stress, resulting in a lower risk of developing ED in physically active men. Metformin combined with PDE5 inhibitors is a promising treatment approach, although with limited research.