Management of Erectile Dysfunction in Primary Care

The field of erectile dysfunction (ED) is a dynamic and constantly evolving one and in recent years the speed of change in this area has increased many-fold. Up to the late 1990's, despite the prevalence of ED, fewer than one in ten men sought treatment. Since the availability of the first oral therapeutant, sildenafil, there has been a major change in medical focus; primary care physicians have increasingly become the front line in the management of patients complaining of sexual disorders. However, even with the advent of these new drug types the majority of men suffering from ED still do not present with the condition to their physician. Primary care is the ideal situation for screening and promotion as well as for the treatment of most chronic health problems. ED is a symptom, not a disease and it is strongly associated with a range of important life-shortening disorders including hypertension, coronary artery disease, diabetes, chronic renal impairment, arthritis, alcoholism, and multiple sclerosis.
Management of Erectile Dysfunction in Primary Care is designed to help physicians improve the dialogue between themselves, patients, and the other healthcare providers involved in issues relating to male sexual health and as such it will be a valuable reference for all members of the primary care team with an interest in promoting men's health and well being.