Dear MT,

Yes they can. But much more importantly, they can – and DO – affect performance in men.

It is now realised that Erectile Dysfunction, (ED) which is very common in men over the age of 40, is a good indicator of overall cardiovascular health. Men with this problem do not need primary advice from counsellors regarding sexual techniques, but they do need to consult a physician or cardiologist. It makes sense that ED is a good indicator of cardiovascular well-neing, as the whole process of erection, both obtaining and sustaining it, is dependant on blood flow to the penis. And that, in turn, depends on the state of one’s arteries. And here is where the high blood pressure and cholesterol comes in : both affect arteries, and can thus cause problems.

HeartDoc