Mechanisms of erectile dysfunction induced by aging: A comprehensive review

BackgroundWith the increasing trend ofpopulation aging, erectile dysfunction (ED) among elderly men has emerged as apressing health concern. Despite extensive research on the relationship betweenED and aging, ongoing discoveries and evidence continue to arise.ObjectiveThrough this comprehensiveanalysis, we aim to provide a more nuanced theoretical framework for thedevelopment of preventive and therapeutic strategies for senile ED, ultimatelyenhancing the quality of life for elderly men.MethodsThis review delves deeper into thecore mechanisms underlying ED in the context of aging and offers acomprehensive overview of published meta-analyses and systematic reviewspertinent to these conditions.Results and conclusionOur findings revealthat local structural damage to the penis, vascular dysfunction, neuronalinjury, hormonal alterations, other physiological changes, and psychologicalbarriers all play pivotal roles in the pathogenesis of aging-related ED.Furthermore, more than 20 diseases closely associated with aging have beenimplicated in the occurrence of ED, further compounding the complexity of thisissue.