In a recent study published in the British Journal of Pharmacology, researchers found that vitamin D deficiency induces erectile dysfunction (ED). ED is a highly prevalent condition, affecting 52% of males aged 40–70 in the United States (US) and 30% of European males aged 40–79. It adversely affects the quality of life and is recognized as a marker of poor health. Notably, ED is an independent predictor of future stroke and myocardial infarction. Further, metabolic diseases, diabetes, and obesity are known risk factors for sexual dysfunction.
Vitamin D has physiological functions beyond phosphorus and calcium homeostasis, such as regulating cell growth, immunity, and intracellular metabolism. Vitamin D deficiency is widespread, affecting over half the global population. The prevalence of vitamin D deficiency is higher in ED patients. Besides, ED severity is associated with plasma levels of 25-hydroxyvitamin D; however, the cause-and-effect relationship is unclear. While previous epidemiological studies have identified this association, the underlying mechanisms and direct causality, particularly in humans, have remained uncertain.
