The relationship between erectile dysfunction and cardiovascular disease. Part I: Pathophysiology and mechanisms

There is increased awareness regarding the close association between cardiovascular disease and erectile dysfunction, especially because both conditions share common risk factors such as diabetes mellitus, hypertension, smoking, hyperlipidemia, and a sedentary lifestyle. Recent studies suggest that erectile dysfunction could be considered a potential marker for underlying silent cardiac or vascular disease processes. Endothelial dysfunction seems to play a major role in both sexual dysfunction and heart disease. With the initiation in 1998 of vasoactive drugs such as the phosphodiesterases inhibitors for the treatment of erectile dysfunction, the underlying vascular components of erectile dysfunction have become a more prominent focus of attention in the clinical and research setting. This review critically examines the background, pathophysiology, and mechanisms behind erectile dysfunction and its close correlation to cardiovascular disease.