Impotence in diabetic patients: detection of prevalence and social-health implications
Alonso Sandoica, E.; Sánchez Sánchez, M.D.; Benito Fernández, R.; Fernández Girón, M.; Palancar de la Torre, J.L.; Tejero Cabello, I.; Jara Rascón, J.
Atencion Primaria 20(8): 435-439
1997
ISSN/ISBN: 0212-6567 PMID: 9462938 Document Number: 479339
To classify information received from diabetics on erectile dysfunction (ED) and to find whether help is being sought or there is just passive resignation. Epidemiological, descriptive, crossover study. Urban Health Centre. 102 patients involved in the Diabetes Programme for over a year were studied. A data collection sheet with the variables listed under objectives was designed. Average age was 63 +/- 12. Overall prevalence of ED was 56%, age being the most important related variable found (p < 0.01). 30% of patients with ED had requested medical care; only 18% had been treated. However, 54% of impotent diabetics accepted the theoretical possibility of treatment with intracavernous injections. A high prevalence of ED was detected in the diabetic patients studied. They considered the medical information on possible treatments scant (18%) and generally inadequate. Most preferred to be treated by the Primary Care doctor. Primary Care professionals must become more sensitive to ED and provide correct therapeutic information.