A majority of men with type 2 diabetes reported that they have occasional or frequent erectile problems in a recent survey. Further, nearly two-thirds reported that neither their general practitioner (GP) nor specialist physicians had ever inquired about sexual problems.

The study involved 1,460 patients enrolled by 114 diabetes outpatient clinics and 112 GPs. They were asked to complete a questionnaire about their ability to achieve and maintain an erection. Various aspects of their quality of life were also assessed, using standard health surveys and measures of depression, psychological adaptation to diabetes and diabetes health distress.

Overall, 34 percent reported frequent erectile problems, 24 percent reported occasional problems, and 42 percent reported no problems. Erectile dysfunction was associated with higher levels of diabetes-specific health distress and worse psychological adaptation to diabetes, which were, in turn, related to poorer metabolic control.

The message here is: don't wait for your doctor to ask if you're having difficulties in your sex life. If you are, you're not alone. Speak up and ask for help. Various treatments, including Viagra, have helped many thousands of men with type 2 diabetes enjoy a more satisfying sex life.

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Source: DeBerardis G, Franciosi M, Belfiglio M, et al. Erectile dysfunction and quality of life in type 2 diabetic patients - a serious problem too often overlooked. Diabetes Care, Feb. 1, 2002;25:284-291. (Abs.)