When evaluating the correlation between severe depression, loss of erections, and a major adverse cardiovascular event (MACE), a recent study found that the combination of poor erections and depression raises the risk for serious or fatal heart attacks, as well as other cardiovascular events. It has been established that there is a link between weak erections and cardiovascular health, but this study, published in July 2010 in the Journal of Sexual Medicine, finds that when depression is added to the mix, the risk of a cardiovascular event is increased.<\/p>\n
The research was conducted in Florence, Italy, where more than 2,000 men were screened for evidence of depression and ED. Their cardiovascular health was then followed for up to six years. The study was conducted by Elisa Bandini, M.D and colleagues at the University of Florence.<\/p>\n
The study participants, who were patients at a sexual dysfunction clinic, were given screening interviews related to erection problems, and also they were also assessed for depression using the Middlesex Hospital Questionnaire for Depressive Symptoms.<\/p>\n
Although both ED and depression have been linked to an elevated risk for major cardiovascular events, the study confirmed that when experienced together, the risk is greater. Results of this study indicate the importance of considering the effects of depression when treating men with erection issues. The researchers concluded that regular screening for cardiovascular problems is especially advised in men with both loss of erections<\/a> and depression.<\/p>\n The study found that, of the sub-group of men whose health was followed for six years, nine percent of men without depression experienced major heart related problems. The men who were depressed had a 15 percent incidence of major cardiovascular events.<\/p>\n
![\"Men](\"\/Blog\/files\/media\/image\/ED%20Depression%20Heart.jpg\")
Depression has serious effects not only on the mind, but also on the physical body as well. It is reported that approximately 15 percent of men with erection issues also suffer from depression. Although there is no evidence presented in this study that antidepressant medication reduced the risk for cardiovascular problems, further studies are necessary to establish whether treatment for depression through medication or other therapies lessens the risk for MACE.<\/p>\n