Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and erectile dysfunction (ED): Results of the BRED observational study

Abstract

Most patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) share many risk factors and similar aetiological agents with erectile dysfunction (ED). Both conditions also cause serious interference with quality of life and sexual relationships. In general, ageing and chronic illness decrease sexual interest, sexual function, and testosterone levels. This observational study included 66 male patients referred to our centre with different grades of COPD. We studied the different correlations between COPD and ED. The data collected from each patient regarded the following features: demographic and social condition; smoking status; clinical status; spirometric measurements. In this group, COPD was diagnosed in 78.8% and ED was present in 83.3% with increased severity in presence of LUTS and nicotinism.