New Study Highlights High Prevalence of Erectile Dysfunction Among Men with Type 2 Diabetes in India
Pune, 25th June 2026 : A recent study conducted by researchers at the Freedom from Diabetes Clinic, India, has found that nearly two-thirds of men living with Type 2 Diabetes (T2D) experience erectile dysfunction (ED), underscoring the need for routine screening and holistic diabetes management that addresses both physical and mental health.
The study, titled “Prevalence and Risk Factors of Erectile Dysfunction in Men with Type 2 Diabetes in Real-World Clinical Practice,” was, presented at the 86th Scientific Sessions of the American Diabetes Association (ADA), held in New Orleans, USA, from June 5–8, 2026, and the abstract has been published in ‘Diabetes’, the official journal of the ADA.(https://diabetesjournals.org/diabetes/article/75/Supplement_1/2295-P/168549/2295-P-Erectile-Dysfunction-in-Type-2-Diabetes)
The study evaluated 473 men aged 25 years and above receiving care at the Freedom from Diabetes Clinic. Unlike many previous studies that excluded patients with multiple health conditions, this research examined individuals in a real-world clinical setting, providing insights that are more representative of everyday diabetes care.
The study was conducted by Dr. P. Tripathi, Dr. A. Vyawahare, Dr. N.S. Kadam, Dr. B. Sharma, Dr. D. Tiwari, Dr. T.R. Kathrikolly, Dr. M. Ganla, and Dr. Banshi Saboo.
The findings revealed that 64 percent of participants experienced some degree of erectile dysfunction, ranging from mild to severe. While 35.9 percent reported no symptoms of ED, nearly one-third had mild ED, and approximately 32 percent experienced moderate to severe forms of the condition.
The study also highlighted the significant burden of associated health conditions among participants. Hypertension was present in 43 percent of patients, dyslipidemia in 46 percent, chronic kidney disease in 38 percent, and neuropathy in 8 percent. Mental health concerns were also common, with nearly half of the participants showing symptoms of depression and more than 40 percent reporting anxiety.
Through multivariate analysis, researchers identified three independent predictors of erectile dysfunction: advancing age, depression, and treatment with a combination of insulin and oral diabetes medications. Men with depression were more than twice as likely to experience ED, while those receiving insulin along with oral hypoglycemic agents showed a substantially higher risk.
According to the researchers, the findings demonstrate that erectile dysfunction is not merely a quality-of-life issue but may also serve as an important indicator of overall metabolic and psychological health in individuals with Type 2 Diabetes.
The study emphasizes the importance of incorporating routine screening for erectile dysfunction and mental health disorders into diabetes care programs. Early identification and treatment can help improve overall well-being, treatment adherence, and long-term health outcomes for people living with diabetes.
The researchers believe that a comprehensive approach to diabetes management—one that addresses glycemic control, psychological well-being, and sexual health—can significantly enhance patient care and quality of life.
