Do you know if you are losing interest in sex at middle age then you are at risk of developing poor brain function and memory loss in later age finds a study. This recent interesting Vientanmese study1 was published in the online journal The Gerontologist.
Important research involved 818 men and measured erectile function, sexual satisfaction, and cognitive performance over a period of time suggesting that declining sexual health could be a sign of increased risk for cognitive decline. Let us find out more about this study.
Exploring the Artery-Size Hypothesis: Microvascular Changes and Cognitive Decline
It is already known to scientists that large-size blood vessel (macro vessels) dysfunction leads to poor brain function (cognitive decline) at a later age. However, the artery-size hypothesis proposes that dysfunction of smaller size blood vessels (microvessels) changes, specifically those similar to the ones affecting erectile function, may also play a significant role in contributing to cognitive decline.
This made scientists look for the connection between erectile function, sexual satisfaction, and cognition starting in middle age. Middle age is the major transition period when this decline clearly emerges. They trying to establish whether erectile dysfunction or loss of sexual satisfaction can be linked to loss of brain function with age.
Microvessels supply blood to various organs, including the brain. So any pathology or dysfunction of these microvessels can lead to reduced blood flow and compromised oxygenation in the brain which is critical for proper cognitive functioning.
Sexual and brain function data collected for 818 men
To establish the link between erectile dysfunction, sexual satisfaction and brain cognitive decline, the team of researchers collected data from the Vietnam Era Twin Study of Aging. It is a study that focuses on ageing-related changes in brain function in a sample of 1200 male twins who served in the military during the Vietnam War.
From this longitudinal study, the researchers recruited a total of 818 men. The data from these participants were collected across three waves of data collection, which took place when the participants had mean ages of 56, 61, and 68.
Researchers examined and collected data related to changes in erectile function, sexual satisfaction, and cognitive performance over time. To assess erectile function and sexual satisfaction, they used the International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF), a validated questionnaire widely used in research and clinical settings.
To measure the brain’s cognitive performance the researchers used factor scores for three domains: episodic memory, executive function, and processing speed. These domains were selected as they represent key aspects of cognitive functioning affected by ageing.
Erectile Function, sexual satisfaction and Cognitive Performance
The initial findings were concerning, the researchers observed a significant association between lower erectile function and poorer cognitive performance across all cognitive domains. This suggests that individuals with lower erectile function tended to exhibit lower cognitive functioning in areas such as episodic memory, executive function, and processing speed.
According to the researchers, the finding provides preliminary evidence that supports the notion that microvascular changes underlying erectile dysfunction may have broader implications for cognitive health.
Scientists also found that lower erectile function at baseline was particularly associated with faster declines in processing speed over time. Processing speed is a crucial cognitive function involved in information processing, decision-making, and overall cognitive efficiency. The observed association suggests that individuals with impaired erectile function may experience a more rapid decline in processing speed as they age, potentially impacting their cognitive abilities in various daily tasks.
Interestingly, we did not find a significant relationship between baseline sexual satisfaction and cognitive performance. This implies that while erectile function may be more closely linked to cognitive functioning, sexual satisfaction alone may not exert a significant influence on cognitive performance.
Why erectile dysfunction is linked to poor brain functioning
As we just learned that according to the artery-size hypothesis, any kind of blockage or alteration of microvessel that causes erectile dysfunction may also impact the smaller blood vessels in the brain. This results in sluggish blood flow and reduced oxygenation to brain cells which in turn affects cognitive functioning.
One of the major causes of this could be psychological distress. In addition to this poor lifestyle habits, such as sedentary behaviour, unhealthy diet, and smoking, can negatively impact both vascular health and cognitive functioning.
Other factors that affect the microvessels of the brain os comorbidities like cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and hypertension.
Here, it is equally important to consider the bidirectional relationship between sexual health and cognitive functioning. Cognitive decline itself can impact sexual health by affecting the cognitive processes involved in sexual arousal, desire, and satisfaction.
Final words
This research is invaluable as it concludes that discussing and tracking sexual health in middle-aged men may help to identify those likely to face memory decline. By uncovering these potential mechanisms, we can develop targeted interventions and strategies to promote sexual and cognitive well-being in middle-aged individuals. Addressing both microvascular changes and psychological distress related to sexual health concerns may hold promise in preserving cognitive function and overall quality of life.
Keep Reading: Turning 50? Here are 4 things you can do to improve your health and well-being
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Dr Sunit Sanjay Ekka is a physiotherapist in practice for the last 15 years. He has done his BPT from one of the premium Central Government physiotherapy colleges, ie, SVNIRTAR. The patient is his best teacher and whatever he gets to learn he loves to share it on his Youtube channel and blog.
