CV autonomic neuropathy predicts urological issues

(HealthDay)—For men with type 1 diabetes, cardiovascular autonomic neuropathy is associated with erectile dysfunction and/or lower urinary tract symptoms, according to a study published in the June issue of The Journal of Urology.

Rodica Pop-Busui, M.D., Ph.D., from the University of Michigan in Ann Arbor, and colleagues examined the correlation between cardiovascular autonomic neuropathy and erectile dysfunction and/or lower urinary tract symptoms. Data were obtained for 635 men in the Diabetes Control and Complications Trial/Epidemiology of Diabetes Interventions and Complications (DCCT/EDIC) with type 1 diabetes. Analyses were adjusted for time-weighted glycemic control, blood pressure, age, and other covariates.

The researchers found that, compared to men without erectile dysfunction or lower urinary tract symptoms, those with erectile dysfunction and/or lower urinary tract symptoms had significantly lower respiratory rate variation and Valsalva ratio at DCCT closeout and EDIC year 16/17. The odds of erectile dysfunction and lower urinary tract symptoms were increased 2.65-fold among participants with cardiovascular autonomic neuropathy, in adjusted analysis.

"These data suggest that cardiovascular autonomic neuropathy predicts the development of urological complications in men with long-standing type 1 diabetes," the authors write. "Studies evaluating the mechanisms contributing to these interactions are warranted for targeting effective prevention or treatment."

One author disclosed financial ties to the medical device industry.