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Mengesha AK, Workie Limenh L, Ayenew W, Chanie GS, Seid AM, Mitku ML, Melese M, Gela YY, Esubalew D, Beyna AT. Evaluation of community pharmacy technicians' knowledge, attitudes, and practices about erectile dysfunction and its predictors in Gondar Town: A cross-sectional descriptive study. Heliyon 2024; 10:e36317. [PMID: 39253239 PMCID: PMC11382092 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2024.e36317] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2024] [Revised: 08/01/2024] [Accepted: 08/13/2024] [Indexed: 09/11/2024] Open
Abstract
Background Erection Dysfunction, which primarily affects males older than 40 years, is the inability to regularly produce or retain a penile erection that is strong enough to satisfy sexual activity. Objective To evaluate knowledge, attitudes, and practices related to erectile dysfunction and its predictors among community pharmacy technicians in Gondar, Ethiopia. Method We conducted a cross-sectional descriptive study on pharmacy technicians in Gondar from June 1, 2022, to August 30, 2022. The study included 165 respondents and utilized a standardized questionnaire with 42 questions to assess their knowledge (18 items), attitudes (5 items), practices (15 items), and demographic characteristics (4 items) regarding erectile dysfunction. We performed both univariate and multivariate analyses on the collected data. Results Multivariate logistic regression analysis showed that greater educational attainment was independently correlated with increased knowledge of erectile dysfunction. For postgraduate pharmacy education, the adjusted odds ratio (AOR) was 0.031 (95 % CI: 0.006-0.170, p < 0.001).Regarding work experience, the adjusted odds ratios (AORs) were as follows: 6.223E-010 (95 % CI: 9.713E-011-3.987E-009, p < 0.001) for 1-5 years, 7.940E-010 (95 % CI: 1.381E-010-4.566E-009, p < 0.001) for 5-10 years, and 6.134E-010 (95 % CI: 1.333E-010-2.824E-009, p < 0.001) for over 10 years.Additionally, respondents with 5-10 years of work experience had an AOR of 8.129 (95 % CI: 1.476-44.786, p = 0.016), and the gender of the participants had an AOR of 3.399 (95 % CI: 1.239-9.325, p = 0.017), both of which were associated with erectile dysfunction behaviors.The aggregate ratings indicated that the participants had moderate knowledge, attitudes, and practices regarding erectile dysfunction. The Pearson Correlation Test revealed a significant positive relationship between knowledge of erectile dysfunction and attitude (r = 0.589 and p < 0.001) and practice (r = 0.524 and p < 0.001). Additionally, attitudes and practices showed a significant positive correlation (r = 0.321, p < 0.001). Conclusion The study findings showed that pharmacy technicians have a moderate level of understanding, attitudes, and practices regarding erectile dysfunction. The scores for general erectile dysfunction knowledge, attitude, and practice showed a significant positive association (p < 0.001).
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Affiliation(s)
- Assefa Kebad Mengesha
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Gondar, Gondar, Ethiopia
| | - Liknaw Workie Limenh
- Department of Pharmaceutics, School of Pharmacy, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Gondar, Gondar, Ethiopia
| | - Wondim Ayenew
- Department of Social and Administrative Pharmacy, School of Pharmacy ,College of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Gondar, Gondar, Ethiopia
| | - Gashaw Sisay Chanie
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, School of Pharmacy, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Gondar, Gondar, Ethiopia
| | - Abdulwase Mohammed Seid
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, School of Pharmacy, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Gondar, Gondar, Ethiopia
| | - Melese Legesse Mitku
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Gondar, Gondar, Ethiopia
| | - Mihret Melese
- Department of Physiology, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Gondar, Gondar, Ethiopia
| | - Yibeltal Yismaw Gela
- Department of Physiology, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Gondar, Gondar, Ethiopia
| | - Dereje Esubalew
- Department of Human Physiology, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Ambo University, Ambo, Ethiopia
| | - Alemante Tafese Beyna
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Gondar, Gondar, Ethiopia
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2
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Sayed Ahmed HA, Abdallah EM, Mohamed MAE, Aboelfotoh TM, Nour-Eldein H, Fouad AM. Association between erectile dysfunction and subjective well-being in primary care patients with type 2 diabetes. Diabetol Int 2024; 15:421-432. [PMID: 39101170 PMCID: PMC11291785 DOI: 10.1007/s13340-024-00699-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2023] [Accepted: 01/31/2024] [Indexed: 08/06/2024]
Abstract
Objectives To assess the association between erectile dysfunction and subjective well-being among primary care patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus. Methods This cross-sectional study included 340 men with type 2 diabetes treated in primary health care settings in the Ismailia governorate between April 2021 and April 2022. A multistage random cluster sampling technique was used. Sociodemographic data, disease characteristics, lifestyle, surgical and sexual history, and the Arabic translations of the abridged 5-item version of the International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF-5) Questionnaire, and the 5-item World Health Organization Well-Being Index (WHO-5) were gathered. Results Erectile dysfunction was identified in 72.94% of diabetic patients, with 55% mild or mild-to-moderate (ED I), and 17.9% moderate or severe (ED II). Twenty percent had Poor subjective well-being, with a mean WHO-5 index of 63.4 (± 15.4). Binary logistic regression analysis showed that education, diabetes duration, insufficient income, dyslipidemia, benign prostate hyperplasia, and IIEF-5 score were significantly associated with poor subjective well-being. Increasing IIEF-5 score was significantly associated with a 22% decrease in the odds of poor subjective well-being (OR: 0.78; 95% CI 0.66-0.93). Multinomial regression analysis showed that increasing score of the WHO-5 well-being index was associated with a 11% and 14% reduction in the odds of ED I and II, respectively (OR: 0.89 (95% CI 0.86-0.93), and 0.86 (95% CI 0.81-0.92), respectively). Conclusion Erectile dysfunction and subjective well-being were interrelated. Early detection of erectile dysfunction is essential for improving the positive mental health of men with type 2 diabetes in primary care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hazem A. Sayed Ahmed
- Department of Family Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Suez Canal University, Ismailia, Egypt
| | | | | | | | - Hebatallah Nour-Eldein
- Department of Family Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Suez Canal University, Ismailia, Egypt
| | - Ahmed Mahmoud Fouad
- Department of Public Health, Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Suez Canal University, Ismailia, Egypt
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3
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Sansone A, Yuan J, Hou G, Zhang L, Gao M, Zhang Z, Jiang H, Wang F, Guo J, Geng Q, Wang M, Zhang X, Yu X, Zhang Y, Liu JC, Duan YG, Nagrale D, Chen Z, Jannini EA, Colonnello E, Ciocca G, Limoncin E, Mollaioli D, Dun X, Yuan J, Lin H, Zhang H. From Waterloo to the Great Wall: A retrospective, multicenter study on the clinical practice and cultural attitudes in the management of premature ejaculation, in China. Andrology 2024; 12:247-258. [PMID: 36748824 DOI: 10.1111/andr.13403] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2022] [Revised: 12/30/2022] [Accepted: 01/27/2023] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Premature ejaculation (PE), despite its wide prevalence, is largely underdiagnosed and undertreated. Being a multifactorial dysfunction with strong cultural characteristics, PE requires skillful attitudes in the psychosexological support, necessary to manage the patient's and the couple's expectations, as well as in the medical treatment. Dapoxetine is a short-acting selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor approved for use in lifelong and acquired PE in a number of countries. Opinions, not always generated by the evidence-based medicine, impacted the attitudes of Western andrologists, as a nocebo effect which produced a drug's Waterloo, characterized by low prescription rates much more built on the patients' and doctors' expectations than on costs, side effects, and efficacy. In the present study, we retrospectively reviewed real-life data from eight Andrology and Sexual Medicine Public Centers in China to assess the prevalence of PE among attending patients, its association with erectile dysfunction, its subtype, and the proposed treatments. In 2019, among 156,486 patients coming to the centers, 32,667 visits having PE as the chief complaint were performed (20.9%). Almost all patients received treatment prescriptions (32,641 patients, 99.92%); 23,273 patients came back for a follow-up visit in the subsequent 12 months (71.2% of those who initially received treatment). Dapoxetine, either alone or in combination with another therapy, was the most prevalent treatment, prescribed to 22,767 patients (69.7% of treated patients), followed by traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) (39.4%). At follow-up, 8174 patients were unsatisfied with treatment, and a new treatment was proposed (35.12%). Dapoxetine was the best treatment, with an overall 27.1% switching rate when used either alone or in combination: Although the switching rate for Dapoxetine alone was 44.2%, the association of the same drug with psychotherapy resulted in much lower rates (19.5%) and reached a minimum of 12% when also combined with TCM demonstrating how cultural aspects and medical attitudes may dramatically impact on the therapy of a multifaceted, complex, and culture-grounded sexual symptom such as PE. In conclusion, taking switching rates as surrogate markers of treatment failure, this real-life study-the largest in the field-shows that in a more patient-oriented (as in Chinese medical culture), and less symptom-oriented (as in Western medical attitudes), Dapoxetine is a successful treatment for PE patients, with higher reliability when used alone or as part of combined and integrated therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrea Sansone
- Endocrinology and Medical Sexology (ENDOSEX), Department of Systems Medicine, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy
| | - Jianlin Yuan
- Department of Urology, Xijing Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, China
| | - Guangdong Hou
- Department of Urology, Xijing Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, China
- Department of Andrology, Xi'an Daxing Hospital, Xi'an, China
| | - Lei Zhang
- Department of Urology, Xijing Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, China
| | - Ming Gao
- Department of Andrology, Xi'an Daxing Hospital, Xi'an, China
| | - Zhe Zhang
- Peking University 3rd Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Hui Jiang
- Peking University 1st Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Fu Wang
- Xiyuan Hospital of China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Jun Guo
- Xiyuan Hospital of China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Qiang Geng
- First Teaching Hospital of Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Chinese Medicine Acupuncture and Moxibustion, Tianjin, China
| | - Ming Wang
- Department of Urology, First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui, China
| | - Xiansheng Zhang
- Department of Urology, First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui, China
| | - Xi Yu
- Department of Infertility and Sexual Medicine, 3rd Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yan Zhang
- Department of Infertility and Sexual Medicine, 3rd Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Jin-Chuan Liu
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Fertility Regulation, Center of Assisted Reproduction and Embryology, The University of Hong Kong-Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen, China
| | - Yong-Gang Duan
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Fertility Regulation, Center of Assisted Reproduction and Embryology, The University of Hong Kong-Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen, China
| | - Dinesh Nagrale
- A. Menarini Asia-Pacific Medical Affairs, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Zhiguo Chen
- A. Menarini China Medical Affairs, Shanghai, China
| | - Emmanuele A Jannini
- Endocrinology and Medical Sexology (ENDOSEX), Department of Systems Medicine, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy
| | - Elena Colonnello
- Endocrinology and Medical Sexology (ENDOSEX), Department of Systems Medicine, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy
| | - Giacomo Ciocca
- Endocrinology and Medical Sexology (ENDOSEX), Department of Systems Medicine, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy
| | - Erika Limoncin
- Endocrinology and Medical Sexology (ENDOSEX), Department of Systems Medicine, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy
| | - Daniele Mollaioli
- Endocrinology and Medical Sexology (ENDOSEX), Department of Systems Medicine, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy
| | - Xinlong Dun
- Department of Urology, Xijing Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, China
| | - Jiarui Yuan
- Department of Urology, Xijing Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, China
| | | | - Hui Zhang
- Endocrinology and Medical Sexology (ENDOSEX), Department of Systems Medicine, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy
- Department of Urology, First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui, China
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4
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Albarakati M, El-Tholoth HS, Alzahrani A, Alghamdi OS, Alquliti A, Alnuami M, Althobity A, Almardawi A, Bedaiwi K. Predictors of Phosphodiesterase Type 5 Inhibitor Treatment Failure in Patients Diagnosed With Erectile Dysfunction. Cureus 2023; 15:e50515. [PMID: 38222149 PMCID: PMC10787576 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.50515] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 12/14/2023] [Indexed: 01/16/2024] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Erectile dysfunction (ED) is a prevalent condition, especially in aging populations, with significant implications for quality of life. While phosphodiesterase type 5 inhibitors (PDE5Is) are the first-line treatment, a substantial percentage of patients do not respond satisfactorily. This study aimed to identify predictors of PDE5I treatment failure in ED patients. METHODS Data from January 2016 to January 2022 was reviewed for patients with ED who either failed PDE5I treatment or had a successful outcome. Demographic, medical, and laboratory data were collected and analyzed. Patients with contraindications or who did not complete the treatment were excluded. RESULTS The treatment failure group comprised 288 patients, while 225 age-matched patients formed the control responder group. There were no significant differences in marriage duration, comorbidities, smoking, or BMI. However, HbA1c levels, free testosterone, and SHBG were significantly different between the two groups. CONCLUSION This study found that high HbA1c levels, low free testosterone, and high sex hormone-binding globulin (SHBG) were associated with PDE5I treatment failure. Managing high HbA1c levels and addressing hormonal imbalances may enhance PDE5I treatment effectiveness in ED patients. However, further research is needed to explore other factors contributing to treatment outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | - Musa Alnuami
- Urology, Prince Sultan Military Medical City, Riyadh, SAU
| | | | | | - Khaled Bedaiwi
- Urology, Prince Sultan Military Medical City, Riyadh, SAU
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5
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Corona G, Cucinotta D, Di Lorenzo G, Ferlin A, Giagulli VA, Gnessi L, Isidori AM, Maiorino MI, Miserendino P, Murrone A, Pivonello R, Rochira V, Sangiorgi GM, Stagno G, Foresta C, Lenzi A, Maggi M, Jannini EA. The Italian Society of Andrology and Sexual Medicine (SIAMS), along with ten other Italian Scientific Societies, guidelines on the diagnosis and management of erectile dysfunction. J Endocrinol Invest 2023; 46:1241-1274. [PMID: 36698034 PMCID: PMC9876440 DOI: 10.1007/s40618-023-02015-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/16/2022] [Accepted: 01/16/2023] [Indexed: 01/27/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE Erectile dysfunction (ED) is one of the most prevalent male sexual dysfunctions. ED has been in the past mistakenly considered a purely psycho-sexological symptom by patients and doctors. However, an ever-growing body of evidence supporting the role of several organic factors in the pathophysiological mechanisms underlying ED has been recognized. METHODS The Italian Society of Andrology and Sexual Medicine (SIAMS) commissioned an expert task force involving several other National Societies to provide an updated guideline on the diagnosis and management of ED. Derived recommendations were based on the Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development, and Evaluation (GRADE) system. RESULTS Several evidence-based statements were released providing the necessary up-to-date guidance in the context of ED with organic and psychosexual comorbidities. Many of them were related to incorrect lifestyle habits suggesting how to associate pharmacotherapies and counseling, in a couple-centered approach. Having the oral therapy with phosphodiesterase type 5 inhibitors as the gold standard along with several other medical and surgical therapies, new therapeutic or controversial options were also discussed. CONCLUSIONS These are the first guidelines based on a multidisciplinary approach that involves the most important Societies related to the field of sexual medicine. This fruitful discussion allowed for a general agreement on several recommendations and suggestions to be reached, which can support all stakeholders in improving couple sexual satisfaction and overall general health.
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Affiliation(s)
- G Corona
- Endocrinology Unit, Medical Department, Maggiore-Bellaria Hospital, Azienda Usl, Bologna, Italy
| | - D Cucinotta
- Chair of Internal Medicine, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Messina, Messina, Italy
| | - G Di Lorenzo
- Section of Psychiatry, Department of Systems Medicine, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy
- IRCCS Fondazione Santa Lucia, Rome, Italy
| | - A Ferlin
- Unit of Andrology and Reproductive Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of Padova, Padua, Italy
| | - V A Giagulli
- Interdisciplinary Department of Medicine-Section of Internal Medicine, Geriatrics, Endocrinology and Rare Diseases, University of Bari "Aldo Moro", Bari, Italy
- Santa Maria Hospital, GVM Care & Research, Bari, Italy
| | - L Gnessi
- Section of Food Science, Department of Experimental Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - A M Isidori
- Section of Endocrinology, Department of Experimental Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - M I Maiorino
- Division of Endocrinology and Metabolic Diseases, Department of Advanced Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Campania Luigi Vanvitelli, Naples, Italy
| | - P Miserendino
- Diabetology and Endocrinology Unit, ASP #, Caltanissetta, Italy
| | - A Murrone
- Cardiology Unit, Città di Castello and Gubbio-GualdoTadino Hospitals, Azienda Usl Umbria 1, Gubbio, Italy
| | - R Pivonello
- Dipartimento di Medicina Clinica e Chirurgia, Sezione di Endocrinologia, Unità di Andrologia e Medicina della Riproduzione e della Sessualità Maschile e Femminile, Università Federico II di Napoli, Naples, Italy
- Staff of UNESCO Chair for Health Education and Sustainable Development, Federico II University, Naples, Italy
| | - V Rochira
- Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - G M Sangiorgi
- Department of Biomedicine and Prevention, Policlinico Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy
| | - G Stagno
- Diabetology Unit, ASP Reggio Calabria, Reggio Calabria, Italy
| | - C Foresta
- Unit of Andrology and Reproductive Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of Padova, Padua, Italy
| | - A Lenzi
- Section of Food Science, Department of Experimental Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - M Maggi
- Endocrinology Unit, Department of Experimental, Clinical and Biomedical Sciences, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - E A Jannini
- Chair of Endocrinology and Sexual Medicine (ENDOSEX), Department of Systems Medicine, University of Rome Tor Vergata, E Tower South Floor 4, Room E413, Via Montpellier 1, 00133, Rome, Italy.
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6
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Wang M, Dai Y, Jiang H, Sansone A, Jannini EA, Zhang X. Application of dual-energy CT angiography in diagnosis of arterial erectile dysfunction: new scanning technology, new scanning area. Aging Male 2022; 25:257-265. [PMID: 36102620 DOI: 10.1080/13685538.2022.2121815] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/01/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To explore the value of dual-energy computed tomography (DE-CT) angiography in diagnosis of arteriogenic erectile dysfunction (ED) patients and feasibility of new scanning area that excludes the testis. MATERIALS AND METHODS Ninety-three patients suspected of suffering arterial ED and 40 health volunteers underwent penile duplex Doppler ultrasound and DE-CT angiography (DE-CTA). The scanning range of DE-CTA covered whole arterial system of pelvis and testis was excluded. Two blinded investigators independently evaluated the arterial system that supplies the penis. RESULTS Finally, 1596 segments were evaluated and 470 segments were judged to be abnormal. The distribution was: 2 (0.4%) in common iliac artery, 7 (1.5%) in internal iliac artery, 82 (17.5%) in internal pudendal artery, 89 (18.9%) in penile artery, 120 (25.5%) in dorsal artery, and 170 (36.2%) in cavernosal artery. The specificity, sensitivity, positive predictive value, and negative predictive value of DE-CTA in diagnostic were 86.02%, 87.50%, 94.12%, and 72.92%. Besides, the new scan area allowed for effective evaluation of the arteries while excluding the testis. CONCLUSION DE-CTA can provide unbiased, safe evaluation of the vascular status of the penile bed in patients with ED.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ming Wang
- Department of Urology, First affiliated hospital of Anhui medical university, Hefei, China
| | - Yutian Dai
- Department of Andrology, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing University Medical School, Nanjing, China
| | - Hui Jiang
- Department of Andrology, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Andrea Sansone
- Chair of Endocrinology & Medical Sexology (ENDOSEX), Department of Systems Medicine, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy
| | - Emmanuele A Jannini
- Chair of Endocrinology & Medical Sexology (ENDOSEX), Department of Systems Medicine, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy
| | - Xiansheng Zhang
- Department of Urology, First affiliated hospital of Anhui medical university, Hefei, China
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Sansone A, Reisman Y, Meto S, Dolci S, Jannini EA. The Role of the "Anti-Inflammatory" Couple for the Management of Hyperuricemia With Deposition. Sex Med 2022; 10:100562. [PMID: 36087454 PMCID: PMC9537271 DOI: 10.1016/j.esxm.2022.100562] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/08/2022] [Revised: 07/25/2022] [Accepted: 07/26/2022] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Gout is the most prevalent inflammatory crystal arthropathy worldwide and is a chronic disease requiring strict, lifelong adherence to drug therapy and healthy lifestyles. Gout has a heavy burden on the patient's sexual health, owing to the associated inflammatory status, long-term complications, and chronic pain; however, the effects of gout also extend to the partner's sexual health. AIMS We aimed to investigate how the presence of a partner could influence the complex interaction between risk factors for sexual dysfunctions in gout in order to define novel strategies to improve sexual health and disease management. METHODS Clinical and experimental data on the role of the couple in chronic diseases, as well as on the association between gout and sexual health, were searched through Pubmed. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES Evidence from studies describing how the presence of a couple and leveraging sexual health can improve management and clinical outcomes for chronic diseases. RESULTS Treatment adherence can improve the sexual health of gout patients and their partners; likewise, by leveraging sexual health, it would be possible to promote better health-seeking behaviors, ultimately improving gout management. CLINICAL IMPLICATIONS Promoting awareness of the sexual health relevance of gout can potentially be a pivotal strategy to improve disease management and prevent the progression of sexual dysfunctions from subclinical to overt forms. STRENGTHS AND LIMITATIONS Identifying a bidirectional association between sexual health and disease management paves the way for improved disease control and can potentially prevent the development of sexual dysfunctions in couples affected by gout. However, the relevance of the couple has not been adequately addressed in gout management, and most evidence comes from other chronic diseases. CONCLUSION Improving gout management results in better sexual health, and vice-versa promoting better sexual health can improve disease control for gout. The presence of a partner improves the behavioral well-being of gout patients, with beneficial effects on both sexual health and gout management. Sansone A, Reisman Y, Meto S, et al. The Role of the "Anti-Inflammatory" Couple for the Management of Hyperuricemia With Deposition. Sex Med 2022;10:100562.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrea Sansone
- Chair of Endocrinology & Medical Sexology, Department of Systems Medicine, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy
| | | | - Suada Meto
- A. Menarini Industrie Farmaceutiche Riunite S.R.L, Florence, Italy
| | - Susanna Dolci
- Chair of Anatomy, Department of Biomedicine and Prevention, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy
| | - Emmanuele A Jannini
- Chair of Endocrinology & Medical Sexology, Department of Systems Medicine, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy.
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Chung E, Lowy M, Gillman M, Love C, Katz D, Neilsen G. Urological Society of Australia and New Zealand (
USANZ
) and Australasian Chapter of Sexual Health Medicine (
AChSHM
) for the Royal Australasian College of Physicians (
RACP
) clinical guidelines on the management of erectile dysfunction. Med J Aust 2022; 217:318-324. [DOI: 10.5694/mja2.51694] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2020] [Revised: 06/04/2021] [Accepted: 06/17/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Eric Chung
- Princess Alexandra Hospital Brisbane QLD
- University of Queensland Brisbane QLD
- AndroUrology Centre Brisbane QLD
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9
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Sansone A, Reisman Y, Jannini EA. Relationship between hyperuricemia with deposition and sexual dysfunction in males and females. J Endocrinol Invest 2022; 45:691-703. [PMID: 34997558 PMCID: PMC8741558 DOI: 10.1007/s40618-021-01719-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/16/2021] [Accepted: 12/01/2021] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE The association between gout, the most common crystal arthropathy, and sexual dysfunctions has often been investigated by studies in the last decades. Despite the presence of shared risk factors and comorbidities and the possible effects on sexual health of long-term gout complications, awareness of this association is severely lacking and the pathogenetic mechanisms have only partially been identified. In the present review, we aimed to investigate the current evidence regarding the potential mechanisms linking sexual dysfunctions and gout. METHODS A comprehensive literature search within PubMed was performed to provide a summary of currently available evidence regarding the association between gout and sexual dysfunctions. RESULTS Gout and sexual dysfunctions share several risk factors, including diabesity, chronic kidney disease, hypertension, metabolic syndrome, and peripheral vascular disease. Gout flares triggered by intense inflammatory responses feature severe pain and disability, resulting in worse sexual function, and some, but not all, treatments can also impair sexual health. Long-term gout complications can result in persistent pain and disability due to joint deformity, fractures, or nerve compression, with negative bearing on sexual function. The presence of low-grade inflammation impairs both sex steroids synthesis and endothelial function, further advancing sexual dysfunctions. The psychological burden of gout is another issue negatively affecting sexual health. CONCLUSIONS According to currently available evidence, several biological and psychological mechanisms link sexual dysfunctions and gout. Addressing risk factors and providing adequate treatment could potentially have beneficial effects on both conditions. Appropriate clinical evaluation and multidisciplinary approach are recommended to improve patient care.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Sansone
- Chair of Endocrinology and Medical Sexology (ENDOSEX), Department of Systems Medicine, University of Rome Tor Vergata, via Montpellier 1, 00133, Rome, Italy
| | - Y Reisman
- Flare-Health, Amstelveen, The Netherlands
| | - E A Jannini
- Chair of Endocrinology and Medical Sexology (ENDOSEX), Department of Systems Medicine, University of Rome Tor Vergata, via Montpellier 1, 00133, Rome, Italy.
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Dewitte M, Bettocchi C, Carvalho J, Corona G, Flink I, Limoncin E, Pascoal P, Reisman Y, Van Lankveld J. A Psychosocial Approach to Erectile Dysfunction: Position Statements from the European Society of Sexual Medicine (ESSM). Sex Med 2021; 9:100434. [PMID: 34626919 PMCID: PMC8766276 DOI: 10.1016/j.esxm.2021.100434] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/27/2021] [Revised: 07/16/2021] [Accepted: 08/10/2021] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Although erectile dysfunction (ED) involves an interaction between physiological and psychological pathways, the psychosocial aspects of ED have received considerably less attention so far. AIM To review the available evidence on the psychosocial aspects of ED in order to develop a position statement and clinical practice recommendations on behalf of the European Society of Sexual Medicine (ESSM). METHOD A comprehensive, narrative review of the literature was performed. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES Specific statements and recommendations according to the Oxford Centre for Evidence-Based Medicine 2011 Levels of Evidence criteria were provided. RESULTS A multidisciplinary treatment, in which medical treatment is combined with a psychological approach, is preferred over unimodal treatment. There is increasing evidence that psychological treatments of ED can improve medical treatments, the patient's adherence to treatment, and the quality of the sexual relationship. The main components of psychological treatment of ED involve cognitive and behavioral techniques aimed at reducing anxiety, challenging dysfunctional beliefs, increasing sexual stimulation, disrupting sexual avoidance, and increasing intimacy and communication skills in a relational context. When applicable and possible, it is strongly recommended to include the partner in the assessment and treatment of ED and to actively work on interpartner agreement and shared decision-making regarding possible treatment options. To ensure a better integration of the biopsychosocial model into clinical practice, developing concrete treatment protocols and training programs are desirable. CONCLUSION Because the psychosocial approach to ED has been underexposed so far, this position statement provides valuable information for clinicians treating ED. Psychological interventions on ED are based on existing theoretical models that are grounded in empirical evidence. However, the quality of available studies is low, which calls for further research. The sexual medicine field would benefit from pursuing more diversity, inclusivity, and integration when setting up treatments and evaluating their effect. Dewitte M, Bettocchi C, Carvalho J, et al. A Psychosocial Approach to Erectile Dysfunction: Position Statements from the European Society of Sexual Medicine (ESSM). Sex Med 2021;9:100434.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marieke Dewitte
- Department of Clinical Psychological Science, Maastricht University, Maastricht, The Netherlands.
| | - Carlo Bettocchi
- Policlinic, Urology Unit, University of Aldo Moro, Bari, Italy
| | - Joanna Carvalho
- Escola de Psicologia e Ciências da Vida, Universidade Lusófona de Humanidades e Tecnologias, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Giovanni Corona
- Endocrinology Unit, Medical Department, Azienda USL, Maggiore-Bellaria Hospital, Bologna, Italy
| | - Ida Flink
- Center for Health and Medical Psychology, Örebro University, Örebro, Sweden
| | - Erika Limoncin
- Chair of Endocrinology and Medical Sexology (ENDOSEX), Department of Systems Medicine, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy
| | - Patricia Pascoal
- CICPSI, Faculdade de Psicologia, Universidade de Lisboa, Alameda da Universidade, Lisboa, Portugal; Universidade Lusófona de Humanidades e Tecnologias, Lisbon, Portugal; Faculdade de Psicologia e Ciências da Educação & CPUP, Universidade do Porto, Portugal
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11
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Sansone A, Kliesch S, Dugas M, Sandhowe-Klaverkamp R, Isidori AM, Schlatt S, Zitzmann M. Serum concentrations of dihydrotestosterone are associated with symptoms of hypogonadism in biochemically eugonadal men. J Endocrinol Invest 2021; 44:2465-2474. [PMID: 33811609 PMCID: PMC8502125 DOI: 10.1007/s40618-021-01561-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2021] [Accepted: 03/23/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Symptoms of hypogonadism are often reported by subjects with normal serum testosterone (T) levels. We aimed to assess the association between clinical symptoms in andrological outpatients and sex steroids levels. METHODS This is a retrospective cross-sectional cohort study in an Academic clinic and research unit. International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF, EF domain) and Aging Males Symptoms scale (AMS) questionnaires were completed by 635 and 574 men, respectively (mean age: 47.3 ± 13.9 and 47.4 ± 13.8 years, p = 0.829), free of interfering medications with complaints possibly related to hypogonadism. RESULTS Serum total/free T as well as dihydro-T (DHT) was associated with IIEF-EF and AMS scores in the overall population using univariate analyses. Multivariate approaches revealed DHT concentrations in subjects with normal T levels (n = 416, Total T > 12 nmol/L) to be significant predictors of AMS scores. A 0.1 nmol/l serum DHT increase within the eugonadal range was associated with a 4.67% decrease in odds of having worse symptoms (p = 0.011). In men with biochemical hypogonadism (Total T < 12 nmol/L), total and free T rather than DHT were associated with AMS results. This association was not found for IIEF-EF scores. Indirect effects of age and BMI were seen for relations with hormone concentrations but not questionnaire scores. CONCLUSION DHT can be associated with symptoms of hypogonadism in biochemically eugonadal men. Serum DHT measurement might be helpful once the diagnosis of hypogonadism has been ruled out but should not be routinely included in the primary diagnostic process.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Sansone
- Center of Reproductive Medicine and Andrology, Institute of Reproductive and Regenerative Biology, Münster, Germany.
- Chair of Endocrinology and Medical Sexology (ENDOSEX), Department of Systems Medicine, University of Rome Tor Vergata, via Montpellier 1, 00133, Rome, Italy.
| | - S Kliesch
- Center of Reproductive Medicine and Andrology, Institute of Reproductive and Regenerative Biology, Münster, Germany
| | - M Dugas
- Institute of Medical Informatics, University of Münster, Münster, Germany
| | - R Sandhowe-Klaverkamp
- Center of Reproductive Medicine and Andrology, Institute of Reproductive and Regenerative Biology, Münster, Germany
| | - A M Isidori
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - S Schlatt
- Center of Reproductive Medicine and Andrology, Institute of Reproductive and Regenerative Biology, Münster, Germany
| | - M Zitzmann
- Center of Reproductive Medicine and Andrology, Institute of Reproductive and Regenerative Biology, Münster, Germany
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12
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Sansone A, Cuzin B, Jannini EA. Facing Counterfeit Medications in Sexual Medicine. A Systematic Scoping Review on Social Strategies and Technological Solutions. Sex Med 2021; 9:100437. [PMID: 34619517 PMCID: PMC8766274 DOI: 10.1016/j.esxm.2021.100437] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2021] [Revised: 08/13/2021] [Accepted: 08/20/2021] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction The counterfeit phenomenon is a largely under-reported issue, with potentially large burden for healthcare. The market for counterfeit drugs used in sexual medicine, most notably type 5 phosphodiesterase inhibitors (PDE5i), is rapidly growing. Aims To report the health risks associated with the use of counterfeit medications, the reasons driving their use, and the strategies enacted to contain this phenomenon. Methods A systematic scoping review of the literature regarding counterfeit PDE5i was carried between January and June 2021, then updated in August 2021. Main Outcome Measure We primarily aimed to clarify the main drivers for counterfeit PDE5i use, the health risks associated, and the currently available strategies to fight counterfeiters. Results One hundred thirty-one records were considered for the present scoping review. Production of fake PDE5i is highly lucrative and the lacking awareness of the potential health risks makes it a largely exploitable market by counterfeiters. Adulteration with other drugs, microbial contamination and unreliable dosages make counterfeit medications a cause of worry also outside of the sexual medicine scope. Several laboratory techniques have been devised to identify and quantify the presence of other compounds in counterfeit medications. Strategies aimed at improving awareness, providing antitampering packaging and producing non-falsifiable products, such as the orodispersible formulations, are also described. Clinical implications Improving our understanding of the PDE5i counterfeit phenomenon can be helpful to promote awareness of this issue and to improve patient care. Strengths & Limitations Despite the systematic approach, few clinical studies were retrieved, and data concerning the prevalence of counterfeit PDE5i use is not available on a global scale. Conclusion The counterfeit phenomenon is a steadily growing issue, with PDE5i being the most counterfeited medication with potentially large harmful effects on unaware consumers. Sansone A, Cuzin B, and Jannini EA. Facing Counterfeit Medications in Sexual Medicine. A Systematic Scoping Review on Social Strategies and Technological Solutions. Sex Med 2021;9:100437.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrea Sansone
- Chair of Endocrinology and Medical Sexology (ENDOSEX), Department of Systems Medicine, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy
| | - Béatrice Cuzin
- Division of Urology and Transplantation, Edouard Herriot Hospital, Lyon, France
| | - Emmanuele A Jannini
- Chair of Endocrinology and Medical Sexology (ENDOSEX), Department of Systems Medicine, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy.
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13
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Gerbild H, Areskoug Josefsson K, Marie Larsen C, Schantz Laursen B. Communication about physical activity to reduce vascular erectile dysfunction - A qualitative interview study among men in cardiac rehabilitation. Scand J Caring Sci 2021; 36:839-851. [PMID: 34288023 DOI: 10.1111/scs.13021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/04/2020] [Revised: 07/08/2021] [Accepted: 07/11/2021] [Indexed: 01/14/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Physical activity, a core intervention in cardiac rehabilitation, can reduce vascular erectile dysfunction (ED). ED is a common sensitive problem for men with cardiac diseases, decreasing their quality of life. Cardiac health professionals rarely provide information about ED or its relation to physical activity. Developing health professionals' communicative component of the complex intervention 'Physical Activity to reduce Vascular Erectile Dysfunction' (PAVED) is important. Understanding the receiver needs is essential in designing a complex intervention. AIM To elucidate men's perspectives on cardiac health professionals' communication about PAVED. ETHICAL ISSUES An Institutional Data Protection Agency approved the study. METHODS An interpretive data-driven thematic analysis was applied to individual, qualitative semi-structured interviews with 20 Danish men attending cardiac rehabilitation. RESULTS The men wanted health professionals' communicating about ED, as it was perceived as a major problem diminishing masculinity and tabooed by health professionals. Men wanted help for self-help, which may be possible with the aid of competent health professionals' communication about how to prevent, reduce and cope with ED - including information about PAVED. The men wanted health professionals' communication about ED in various contexts: general information in groups, sexual counselling for individuals and couples and written material. STUDY LIMITATIONS Recruitment was done from a Danish municipality's cardiac rehabilitation, and the transferability of the results may be limited to similar contexts. CONCLUSION Erectile dysfunction was experienced as a major biopsychosocial problem for the men and their partners. The men had a need for health professionals' communication about sexuality, ED and information about PAVED as well as about prevention, reduction and management of ED. The men had a need for professional communication about sexual health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Helle Gerbild
- Health Sciences Research Centre, UCL University College, Odense, Denmark.,Center for Sexology Research, Department of Clinical Medicine, Aalborg University, Aalborg, Denmark.,Department for Behavioural Sciences, Oslo Metropolitan University, Oslo, Norway
| | - Kristina Areskoug Josefsson
- Department for Behavioural Sciences, Oslo Metropolitan University, Oslo, Norway.,Faculty of Health Studies, VID Specialized University, Sandnes, Norway.,School of Health and Welfare, Jönköping Academy for Improvement of Health and Welfare, Jönköping University, Jönköping, Sweden
| | - Camilla Marie Larsen
- Health Sciences Research Centre, UCL University College, Odense, Denmark.,Department of Sports Science and Clinical Biomechanics, University of Southern Denmark, Odense, Denmark
| | - Birgitte Schantz Laursen
- Center for Sexology Research, Department of Clinical Medicine, Aalborg University, Aalborg, Denmark.,Clinical Nursing Research Unit & Sexological Centre, Aalborg University Hospital, Aalborg, Denmark
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14
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Gerbild H, Areskoug-Josefsson K, Larsen CM, Laursen BS. Acceptability of Health Professionals' Address of Sexuality and Erectile Dysfunction - A Qualitative Interview Study with Men in Cardiac Rehabilitation. Sex Med 2021; 9:100369. [PMID: 34087535 PMCID: PMC8240334 DOI: 10.1016/j.esxm.2021.100369] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2021] [Revised: 03/22/2021] [Accepted: 03/23/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION In the developing phase of the complex health intervention: Physical Activity to reduce Vascular Erectile Dysfunction (PAVED), it is crucial to explore whether men can accept the communicative component regarding information that regular aerobe Physical Activity can reduce Erectile Dysfunction (i-PAVED). This information is provided by health professionals (HPs) in cardiac rehabilitation, where sexuality issues such as erectile dysfunction (ED) are otherwise rarely addressed. AIM To explore how acceptance of cardiac HPs' address of sexuality, ED, and i-PAVED can be identified in men's narratives. METHODS In this descriptive qualitative study, we conducted semi-structured individual interviews with 20 men (range 48-78 years of age) attending municipal cardiac secondary prevention and rehabilitation programmes on their acceptance of HPs' address of sexuality, ED, and i-PAVED. The Theoretical Framework of Acceptability components (affective attitude, burden, ethicality, intervention coherence, perceived effectiveness, opportunity costs and self-efficacy) and three temporal perspectives (retrospective, concurrent and prospective) were used in the concept-driven first step of a content analysis, which was followed by a thematically data-driven second step. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES Men anticipated and experiential acceptance was identified in six out of seven components of Theoretical Framework of Acceptability. RESULTS Men acceptance was identified as "expression of interest," "addressing sexuality," "attitudes and values," "understandable and meaningful," "insights" and "motivation," whereas no narratives were identified in relation to the component of opportunity costs. CONCLUSION As an aspect of the development of the complex cardiovascular health care intervention PAVED, this qualitative study showed that men attending cardiac secondary prevention and rehabilitation seemed to prospectively accept the communicative component of PAVED being HPs' address of sexuality, ED, and i-PAVED, if the HPs are professional, educated and competent in the field of sexual health. Gerbild H, Areskoug-Josefsson K, Larsen CM, et al. Acceptability of Health Professionals' Address of Sexuality and Erectile Dysfunction - A Qualitative Interview Study with Men in Cardiac Rehabilitation. Sex Med 2021;9:100369.
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Affiliation(s)
- Helle Gerbild
- Health Sciences Research Centre, UCL University College, Odense, Denmark; Center for Sexology Research, Department of Clinical Medicine, Aalborg University, Aalborg, Denmark.
| | - Kristina Areskoug-Josefsson
- Faculty of Health Science, VID Specialized University, Sandnes, Norway; School of Health and Welfare, Jönköping Academy for Improvement of Health and Welfare, Jönköping University, Jönköping, Sweden; Department for Behavioural Sciences, Oslo Metropolitan University, Oslo, Norway
| | - Camilla Marie Larsen
- Health Sciences Research Centre, UCL University College, Odense, Denmark; Department of Sports Science and Clinical Biomechanics; University of Southern Denmark, Odense, Denmark
| | - Birgitte Schantz Laursen
- Center for Sexology Research, Department of Clinical Medicine, Aalborg University, Aalborg, Denmark; Clinical Nursing Research Unit, Aalborg University hospital, Denmark
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15
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Sansone A, Mollaioli D, Ciocca G, Colonnello E, Limoncin E, Balercia G, Jannini EA. "Mask up to keep it up": Preliminary evidence of the association between erectile dysfunction and COVID-19. Andrology 2021; 9:1053-1059. [PMID: 33742540 PMCID: PMC8250520 DOI: 10.1111/andr.13003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 62] [Impact Index Per Article: 20.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2021] [Revised: 03/08/2021] [Accepted: 03/16/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Background Erectile dysfunction (ED), as the hallmark of endothelial dysfunction, could be a short‐ or long‐term complication of COVID‐19. Additionally, being ED a clinical marker and predictor of non‐communicable chronic diseases, particularly cardiovascular, subjects with ED could potentially have a higher risk of contracting COVID‐19. Objectives To investigate the prevalence of ED among subjects with a reported diagnosis of COVID‐19 and to measure the association of COVID‐19 and ED. Materials and methods We reviewed data from the Sex@COVID online survey (performed between April 7 and May 4, 2020, in Italy) to retrieve a sample of Italian male sexually active subjects with reported SARS‐CoV‐2 infection. A matching sample of COVID‐19‐negative male sexually active subjects was also retrieved using propensity score matching in a 3:1 ratio. The survey used different standardized psychometric tools to measure effects of lockdown and social distancing on the intrapsychic, relational, and sexual health of Italian subjects. Results One hundred subjects were included in the analysis (25 COVID‐positive; 75 COVID‐negative). The prevalence of ED, measured with the Sexual Health Inventory for Men, was significantly higher in the COVID+ group (28% vs. 9.33%; p = 0.027). Logistic regression models confirmed a significant effect of COVID‐19 on the development of ED, independently of other variables affecting erectile function, such as psychological status, age, and BMI [OR 5.66, 95% CI: 1.50–24.01]. Likewise, subjects with ED were more likely to have COVID‐19, once corrected for age and BMI [OR 5.27, 95% CI: 1.49–20.09]. Discussion and conclusion On top of well‐described pathophysiological mechanisms, there is preliminary evidence in a real‐life population of ED as a risk factor of developing COVID‐19 and possibly occurring as a consequence of COVID‐19. Universal vaccination against the COVID‐19 and the personal protective equipment could possibly have the added benefit of preventing sexual dysfunctions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrea Sansone
- Endocrinology and Medical Sexology (ENDOSEX, Department of Systems Medicine, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Roma, Italy
| | - Daniele Mollaioli
- Endocrinology and Medical Sexology (ENDOSEX, Department of Systems Medicine, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Roma, Italy
| | - Giacomo Ciocca
- Department of Dynamic and Clinical Psychology, Health Studies "Sapienza" University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Elena Colonnello
- Endocrinology and Medical Sexology (ENDOSEX, Department of Systems Medicine, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Roma, Italy
| | - Erika Limoncin
- Endocrinology and Medical Sexology (ENDOSEX, Department of Systems Medicine, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Roma, Italy
| | - Giancarlo Balercia
- Division of Endocrinology, Department of Clinical and Molecular Sciences, Polytechnic University of Marche, Ancona, Italy
| | - Emmanuele A Jannini
- Endocrinology and Medical Sexology (ENDOSEX, Department of Systems Medicine, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Roma, Italy
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Mykoniatis I, Pyrgidis N, Sokolakis I, Ouranidis A, Sountoulides P, Haidich AB, van Renterghem K, Hatzichristodoulou G, Hatzichristou D. Assessment of Combination Therapies vs Monotherapy for Erectile Dysfunction: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis. JAMA Netw Open 2021; 4:e2036337. [PMID: 33599772 PMCID: PMC7893498 DOI: 10.1001/jamanetworkopen.2020.36337] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
IMPORTANCE Combining 2 first-line treatments for erectile dysfunction (ED) or initiating other modalities in addition to a first-line therapy may produce beneficial outcomes. OBJECTIVE To assess whether different ED combination therapies were associated with improved outcomes compared with first-line ED monotherapy in various subgroups of patients with ED. DATA SOURCES Studies were identified through a systematic search in MEDLINE, Cochrane Library, and Scopus from inception of these databases to October 10, 2020. STUDY SELECTION Randomized clinical trials or prospective interventional studies of the outcomes of combination therapy vs recommended monotherapy in men with ED were identified. Only comparative human studies, which evaluated the change from baseline of self-reported erectile function using validated questionnaires, that were published in any language were included. DATA EXTRACTION AND SYNTHESIS Data extraction and synthesis were performed according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-analyses (PRISMA) reporting guideline. MAIN OUTCOMES AND MEASURES A meta-analysis was conducted that included randomized clinical trials that compared outcomes of combination therapy with phosphodiesterase type 5 (PDE5) inhibitors plus another agent vs PDE5 inhibitor monotherapy. Separate analyses were performed for the mean International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF) score change from baseline and the number of adverse events (AEs) by different treatment modalities and subgroups of patients. RESULTS A total of 44 studies included 3853 men with a mean (SD) age of 55.8 (11.9) years. Combination therapy compared with monotherapy was associated with a mean IIEF score improvement of 1.76 points (95% CI, 1.27-2.24; I2 = 77%; 95% PI, -0.56 to 4.08). Adding daily tadalafil, low-intensity shockwave therapy, vacuum erectile device, folic acid, metformin hydrochloride, or angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors was associated with a significant IIEF score improvement, but each measure was based on only 1 study. Specifically, the weighted mean difference (WMD) in IIEF score was 1.70 (95% CI, 0.79-2.61) for the addition of daily tadalafil, 3.50 (95% CI, 0.22-6.78) for the addition of low-intensity shockwave therapy, 8.40 (95% CI, 4.90-11.90) for the addition of a vacuum erectile device, 3.46 (95% CI, 2.16-4.76) for the addition of folic acid, 4.90 (95% CI, 2.82-6.98) for the addition of metformin hydrochloride and 2.07 (95% CI, 1.37-2.77) for the addition of angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors. The addition of α-blockers to PDE5 inhibitors was not associated with improvement in IIEF score (WMD, 0.80; 95% CI, -0.06 to 1.65; I2 = 72%). Compared with monotherapy, combination therapy was associated with improved IIEF score in patients with hypogonadism (WMD, 1.61; 95% CI, 0.99-2.23; I2 = 0%), monotherapy-resistant ED (WMD, 4.38; 95% CI, 2.37-6.40; I2 = 52%), or prostatectomy-induced ED (WMD, 5.47; 95% CI, 3.11-7.83; I2 = 53%). The treatment-related AEs did not differ between combination therapy and monotherapy (odds ratio, 1.10; 95% CI, 0.66-1.85; I2 = 78%). Despite multiple subgroup and sensitivity analyses, the levels of heterogeneity remained high. CONCLUSIONS AND RELEVANCE This study found that combination therapy of PDE5 inhibitors and antioxidants was associated with improved ED without increasing the AEs. Treatment with PDE5 inhibitors and daily tadalafil, shockwaves, or a vacuum device was associated with additional improvement, but this result was based on limited data. These findings suggest that combination therapy is safe, associated with improved outcomes, and should be considered as a first-line therapy for refractory, complex, or difficult-to-treat cases of ED.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ioannis Mykoniatis
- Department of Urology, Faculty of Medicine, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki School of Health Sciences, Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Nikolaos Pyrgidis
- Department of Urology, Faculty of Medicine, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki School of Health Sciences, Thessaloniki, Greece
- Department of Urology, Martha-Maria Hospital Nuremberg, Nuremberg, Germany
| | - Ioannis Sokolakis
- Department of Urology, Martha-Maria Hospital Nuremberg, Nuremberg, Germany
| | - Andreas Ouranidis
- Department of Pharmaceutical Technology, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Thessaloniki, Greece
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Petros Sountoulides
- Department of Urology, Faculty of Medicine, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki School of Health Sciences, Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Anna-Bettina Haidich
- Department of Hygiene, Social-Preventive Medicine & Medical Statistics, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki Medical School, University Campus, Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Koenraad van Renterghem
- Department of Urology, Jessa Hospital, Hasselt University, Hasselt, Belgium
- Department of Urology, University Hospitals Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | | | - Dimitrios Hatzichristou
- Department of Urology, Faculty of Medicine, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki School of Health Sciences, Thessaloniki, Greece
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Lin JH, Ho DR, Shi CS, Chen CS, Li JM, Huang YC. The influence of smoking exposure and cessation on penile hemodynamics and corporal tissue in a rat model. Transl Androl Urol 2020; 9:637-645. [PMID: 32420170 PMCID: PMC7215033 DOI: 10.21037/tau.2019.12.45] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Background While epidemiological studies have clearly documented that smoking cessation significantly enhances sexual health, the underlying mechanism remains largely unknown. Thus, we wished to explore possible mechanisms by using a rat model of smoking-associated erectile dysfunction (ED). Methods Forty 8-week old male Sprague-Dawley rats were divided into 4 groups. Ten rats were exposed only to room air (N group). The remaining 30 rats were passively exposed to cigarette smoke over a 12-week period. At the end of 12 weeks, the smoking (S, n=10) group underwent immediate erectile function testing and were sacrificed. The remaining 20 rats were exposed to room air only for 4 (Q4W, n=10) or 8 (Q8W, n=10) weeks and then underwent erectile function testing and sacrifice. Erectile function was evaluated by measuring intracavernous pressure (ICP) and mean arterial pressure (MAP). After blood collection for serum testosterone determination, rats were sacrificed to obtain corporal tissue for immunohistochemistry. Results Mean ICP/MAP ratio was significantly lower in the S group compared to the N and Q8W groups (0.52±0.11, 0.94±0.05, and 0.94±0.12, respectively, P=0.0189). Smooth muscle/collagen ratio was also significantly lower in the S group compared to the N and Q8W groups (11.8±0.94, 17.5±1.82, and 16.4±0.60, respectively, P=0.0008). Oxidative stress and apoptotic indices were significantly higher in the S group compared to the N and Q8W groups. Neuronal and endothelial nitric oxide synthases were significantly less expressed in the S group compared to the N and Q8W groups. Conclusions Smoking cessation is associated with partial recovery of penile hemodynamics in a rat model of smoking associated ED.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jian-Hui Lin
- Division of Urology, Department of Surgery, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Chiayi
| | - Dong-Ru Ho
- Division of Urology, Department of Surgery, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Chiayi
| | - Chung-Sheng Shi
- Division of Urology, Department of Surgery, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Chiayi.,Graduate Institute of Clinical Medical Sciences, College of Medicine, Chang Gung University, Taoyuan
| | - Chih-Shou Chen
- Division of Urology, Department of Surgery, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Chiayi
| | - Jhy-Ming Li
- Graduate Institute of Clinical Medical Sciences, College of Medicine, Chang Gung University, Taoyuan.,Division of Colon and Rectal Surgery, Department of Surgery, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Chiayi
| | - Yun-Ching Huang
- Division of Urology, Department of Surgery, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Chiayi.,Department of Medicine, College of Medicine, Chang Gung University, Taoyuan
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Azmi S, Petropoulos IN, Ferdousi M, Ponirakis G, Alam U, Malik RA. An update on the diagnosis and treatment of diabetic somatic and autonomic neuropathy. F1000Res 2019; 8. [PMID: 30828432 PMCID: PMC6381801 DOI: 10.12688/f1000research.17118.1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 02/07/2019] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Diabetic peripheral neuropathy (DPN) is the most common chronic complication of diabetes. It poses a significant challenge for clinicians as it is often diagnosed late when patients present with advanced consequences such as foot ulceration. Autonomic neuropathy (AN) is also a frequent and under-diagnosed complication unless it is overtly symptomatic. Both somatic and autonomic neuropathy are associated with increased mortality. Multiple clinical trials have failed because of limited efficacy in advanced disease, inadequate trial duration, lack of effective surrogate end-points and a lack of deterioration in the placebo arm in clinical trials of DPN. Multifactorial risk factor reduction, targeting glycaemia, blood pressure and lipids can reduce the progression of DPN and AN. Treatment of painful DPN reduces painful symptoms by about 50% at best, but there is limited efficacy with any single agent. This reflects the complex aetiology of painful DPN and argues for improved clinical phenotyping with the use of targeted therapy, taking into account co-morbid conditions such as anxiety, depression and sleep disturbance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shazli Azmi
- Institute of Cardiovascular Sciences, University of Manchester and Central Manchester NHS Foundation Trust, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, Manchester, UK.,Manchester Diabetes Centre, Manchester University Foundation Trust, Manchester, UK
| | | | - Maryam Ferdousi
- Institute of Cardiovascular Sciences, University of Manchester and Central Manchester NHS Foundation Trust, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, Manchester, UK
| | - Georgios Ponirakis
- Weill Cornell Medicine-Qatar, Education City, Qatar Foundation, Doha, Qatar
| | - Uazman Alam
- Department of Eye and Vision Science, Institute of Ageing and Chronic Disease, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, UK.,Department of Diabetes and Endocrinology, Royal Liverpool and Broadgreen University NHS Hospital Trust, Liverpool, UK
| | - Rayaz A Malik
- Institute of Cardiovascular Sciences, University of Manchester and Central Manchester NHS Foundation Trust, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, Manchester, UK.,Weill Cornell Medicine-Qatar, Education City, Qatar Foundation, Doha, Qatar
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19
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Orimoloye OA, Feldman DI, Blaha MJ. Erectile dysfunction links to cardiovascular disease-defining the clinical value. Trends Cardiovasc Med 2019; 29:458-465. [PMID: 30665816 DOI: 10.1016/j.tcm.2019.01.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2018] [Revised: 01/06/2019] [Accepted: 01/07/2019] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Despite many advances over the last few decades, cardiovascular disease (CVD) remains the leading cause of death globally, with men afflicted at an earlier age than women. In a bid to reduce the global burden of morbidity and mortality due to CVD, emphasis has been placed on prevention, particularly on widespread promotion of ideal cardiovascular health behaviors and advancing strategies to identify and treat high-risk individuals who may benefit from aggressive preventive therapy. Erectile dysfunction is a highly prevalent condition that has been demonstrated to share the same risk factors as clinical CVD, and to have independent predictive value for future CVD events. Importantly, subclinical atherosclerosis appears to precede vascular ED by a decade or longer, with ED preceding clinical CVD such as myocardial infarction and stroke in temporal sequence by about 2-5 years. Crucially, since ED may represent the first presentation of otherwise "healthy" men to care providers, a clinical diagnosis of vascular ED may represent a unique opportunity to identify high risk individuals, intervene, and thus prevent progression to clinical CVD. This review summarizes up-to-date evidence of the relationship between ED and subclinical and clinical CVD, and details the position of current guidelines and clinical recommendations on the role of ED assessment in CVD prevention. Finally, this review proposes a clinical framework for the incorporation of ED into standard CVD risk assessment in middle-age men.
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Affiliation(s)
- Olusola A Orimoloye
- Johns Hopkins Ciccarone Center for the Prevention of Cardiovascular Disease, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, United States
| | - David I Feldman
- Johns Hopkins Ciccarone Center for the Prevention of Cardiovascular Disease, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, United States; University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, United States
| | - Michael J Blaha
- Johns Hopkins Ciccarone Center for the Prevention of Cardiovascular Disease, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, United States.
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20
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Azmi S, Ferdousi M, Kalteniece A, Al-Muhannadi H, Al-Mohamedi A, Hadid NH, Mahmoud S, Bhat HA, Gad HYA, Khan A, Ponirakis G, Petropoulos IN, Alam U, Malik RA. Diagnosing and managing diabetic somatic and autonomic neuropathy. Ther Adv Endocrinol Metab 2019; 10:2042018819826890. [PMID: 30783521 PMCID: PMC6365998 DOI: 10.1177/2042018819826890] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2018] [Accepted: 01/07/2019] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
The diagnosis and management of diabetic neuropathy can be a major challenge. Late diagnosis contributes to significant morbidity in the form of painful diabetic neuropathy, foot ulceration, amputation, and increased mortality. Both hyperglycaemia and cardiovascular risk factors are implicated in the development of somatic and autonomic neuropathy and an improvement in these risk factors can reduce their rate of development and progression. There are currently no US Food and Drug Administration (FDA)-approved disease-modifying treatments for either somatic or autonomic neuropathy, as a consequence of multiple failed phase III clinical trials. While this may be partly attributed to premature translation, there are major shortcomings in trial design and outcome measures. There are a limited number of partially effective FDA-approved treatments for the symptomatic relief of painful diabetic neuropathy and autonomic neuropathy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shazli Azmi
- Institute of Cardiovascular Sciences, University of Manchester and Central Manchester NHS Foundation Trust, Manchester, UK
| | - Maryam Ferdousi
- Institute of Cardiovascular Sciences, University of Manchester and Central Manchester NHS Foundation Trust, Manchester, UK
| | - Alise Kalteniece
- Institute of Cardiovascular Sciences, University of Manchester and Central Manchester NHS Foundation Trust, Manchester, UK
| | | | | | | | - Salah Mahmoud
- Weill Cornell Medicine-Qatar, Qatar Foundation, Doha, Qatar
| | - Harun A. Bhat
- Weill Cornell Medicine-Qatar, Qatar Foundation, Doha, Qatar
| | - Hoda Y. A. Gad
- Weill Cornell Medicine-Qatar, Qatar Foundation, Doha, Qatar
| | - Adnan Khan
- Weill Cornell Medicine-Qatar, Qatar Foundation, Doha, Qatar
| | | | | | - Uazman Alam
- Department of Eye and Vision Science, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, UK
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