Diabetes and ED

Diabetes is a very common cause of erectile dysfunction. Over half of all men with diabetes may be affected by ED¹⁰.

There are two types of diabetes - Type 1 and Type 2.

Type 1 diabetes is when the cells in the pancreas are unable to produce sufficient insulin. This type of diabetes generally affects younger people, who need to take insulin regularly to stay well.

Type 2 diabetes usually affects middle-aged or older people. It is thought to be caused when the body no longer responds to its own insulin or not enough insulin is produced (or both). People who are overweight are more likely to develop Type 2 diabetes, and it tends to run in families.

Symptoms of diabetes may include:

Increased thirst
Going to the toilet more frequently, especially at night
Extreme tiredness
Weight loss

If you have any of these symptoms, please talk to your doctor as soon as possible. A simple blood test can be used to see if you have diabetes and then steps can be taken to control it. Controlling your diabetes is important to stay fit and healthy.