Published on January 31, 2007 at 1:27 PM
During the month of February, Heart Health Month, the Erectile Dysfunction Institute (EDi) is encouraging all men currently experiencing erectile dysfunction (ED) to visit their cardiologist to be examined for cardiovascular disease.
In an unprecedented move in the medical field, EDi has begun an initiative to encourage referrals between key urologists and leading cardiology centers across the U.S. to ensure both ED and cardiovascular disease are correctly identified and that appropriate treatment paths are offered to patients.
"ED is usually caused by an underlying health issue," shares Drogo K. Montague, M.D., Head Section of Prosthetic Surgery and Genitourethral Reconstruction, Cleveland Clinic. "ED is often associated with impaired blood flow. If a patient is experiencing ED, it can be speculated that this could also be problematic in other areas of the patient's body, especially the heart."
Cardiovascular disease has proven to be a strong predictor of erectile dysfunction. Not all men experiencing ED are at risk for cardiovascular disease, but it is recommended that patients take a proactive approach by visiting their cardiologist to explore risk factors.
"Cardiovascular disease is the leading cause of death in the United States," stated Bill Bozick, a patient who had both cardiovascular disease and ED. "I truly believe it is vital for cardiologists and urologists to work together for the betterment of every patient."
The American Heart Association reports that over 685,000 deaths are attributable to Heart Disease, making it the number one cause of death for adults in the United States.
Over 30 million American men suffer from ED, 85% of which is attributable to physical conditions. Untreated, ED is associated with anxiety, depression, anger and incompatibility within a relationship.
http://www.americanheart.org/ and http://www.edcure.org/ .