Despite the high erectile dysfunction (ED) prevalence most patients receive no treatment, according to a new US study, presented at the 28th Annual EAU Congress. Undertreatment of ED continues to be common, even though the treatments have a proven efficacy and quality of life impact.

“Until now, research conducted on the treatment of erectile dysfunction has been derived from surveys involving small populations,” wrote the authors.

“However, a comprehensive and larger patient-based study using claims data that characterises men undergoing treatment for ED remains to be performed. The aim of the study was to determine the frequency of use of medical therapies, associated co-morbidites of ED in a large population of men.”

During a 12-month period ending June 2011, patients were identified and included in a payor data-set if they received a diagnosis code for ED. Patients were considered “treated” if they filled a prescription for a phosphodiesterase type 5 inhibitor (PDE5i), injection or urethral prostaglandins or androgen replacement (ART). “Untreated” patients received the diagnosis but did not fill a prescription.

The therapies prescribed were monitored by prescription frequency prescribed, age, co-morbidities, and by physician speciality.

Of the 6,228,509 patients derived from a pool of 87,600,000 men with a diagnosis of ED, 25.4% of these were treated; 74.6% went untreated. The most commonly prescribed medications were PDE5i (75.2%) and ART (30.6%).

Less than 2% of patients used any prostaglandin therapy. Treatment frequency was higher for co-morbid hypogonadism (51% treated) and less for co-morbid prostate cancer (15% treated), but otherwise it did not vary significantly with other associated comorbidities.

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Notes to editors

About the European Association of Urology

The EAU represents the leading authority within Europe on urological practice, research and education. Over 16,000 medical professionals have joined its ranks and help to create forward-looking solutions for continuous improvement, professional growth and knowledge sharing. The EAU delivers training, stimulates research and broadcasts information. The EAU’s scientific publications encourage discussion and its expert recommendations guide urologists in their every-day practice.

Reference

O. Cakir, et al., “The frequencies and characteristics of men receiving medical intervention for erectile dysfunction: Analysis of 6.2 million patients,” Abstract Nr: 126; 28th Annual EAU Congress, 15 to 19 March 2013; Milan, Italy.

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Ivanka Moerkerken
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European Association of Urology