Diabetic sexual dysfunction

Although the overall incidence of erectile dysfunction in the general population between ages 40 and 70 years is 52%, impotence develops in men with diabetes mellitus at an earlier age and with a significantly higher prevalence, ranging as high as 75%. Numerous advances have been made in understanding the physiologic and biochemical mechanisms controlling penile erection. In addition, improved clinical techniques for the diagnosis and treatment for erectile dysfunction have been developed. This article reviews the contemporary state of knowledge of erectile dysfunction and diabetes, focusing on the pathophysiology of diabetic-related impotence and the current diagnostic and treatment options for this disorder.