NZ EDUCATIONAL TOUR: LEARN HOW THIS MAY AFFECT YOU

Fifty percent of men with diabetes can suffer from erectile dysfunction. It is one of the least-talked-about complications of diabetes.

Commonly referred to as impotence, erectile dysfunction (ED) is defined as difficulty getting and keeping an erection. ED might feel embarrassing, but it is actually quite common. It is estimated that 322 million men worldwide will be affected by ED by 2025.

Men often feel like they are the only person dealing with the issue of ED. About 75% of diagnosed cases of ED go untreated, but it is really important to talk about it with your partner and your GP.

The good news is that it’s often possible to treat. There are a range of treatments available from clinics and health professionals that specialise in impotence.

Whereas 10% of cases are psychological, another 80% are due to physical causes: diabetes, cardiovascular disease, neurological problems, and prostate cancer surgery.

Most men with diabetes don’t realise there is a connection between ED and diabetes. If diabetes has not been well controlled, it may cause irreversible damage to nerves, blood vessels, and smooth muscle function, all of which are necessary for erections to occur.

Understanding the connection between ED and diabetes could motivate men and their partners to better control their blood sugar levels and make healthy lifestyle choices.

Diabetes NZ wants to start the conversation around this link and how to understand and manage this complication. In May and June, they will be holding a series of four educational evenings on the topic with two of New Zealand’s urologists. The presentations will be in Auckland and Dunedin and will provide all the information you need to help guide you on managing this issue. Please see details on the right.

AUCKLAND

30 May, 6-8pm

Presented by Dr John Tuckey

Dine Restaurant (Manukau Institute of Technology, School of Hospitality Building) Gate 14, Alexander Cres, Otara Register here: https://events.humanitix.com/diabetes-and-edroadshow-auckland

DUNEDIN

17 June, 10.30-12.30pm

Presented by Dr Giovanni Losco from Urology Associates Edgar Centre, 116 Portsmouth Drive, Anderson Bay, Dunedin Register here: https://events.humanitix.com/diabetes-and-edroadshow-dunedin