A new study has found a concerning link between low libido in men and a higher risk of premature death. The research, which was conducted by the University of California San Francisco, analyzed data from over 5,000 men aged between 69 and 71.

The findings suggest that a lower sex drive may be an early sign of poor health, and that it could be used as a warning sign for doctors to identify patients who are at risk of premature death.

The Study

The study, which was published in the Journal of Sexual Medicine, looked at the health and sex lives of 5,000 men over the course of seven years.

The participants underwent a range of tests and were asked to complete questionnaires about their health, sexual function, and overall quality of life. The researchers tracked their health and wellbeing over the next seven years, looking for links between sexual dysfunction and mortality rates.

The findings suggested that men who reported a low libido at the beginning of the study were more likely to die prematurely than those with a high libido.

Those who had reported no issues with their sex drive had a death rate of just 12%, while those who had reported issues had a death rate of 19%. The results held true even after accounting for factors such as age, overall health, and lifestyle habits such as smoking and alcohol consumption.

What Does This Mean?

It is important to note that the study does not prove that low libido directly causes premature death.

However, the findings do suggest that there may be an underlying health issue that is contributing to both low libido and an increased risk of mortality. The study authors suggest that low libido could be a symptom of underlying health problems such as cardiovascular disease or diabetes, both of which are known risk factors for premature death.

It is also possible that low libido could lead to a lower quality of life, which in turn could contribute to a higher risk of mortality.

The researchers note that sexual function is often closely linked to psychological wellbeing and self-esteem, and that a decrease in libido could lead to feelings of depression or anxiety which could impact health and mortality rates.

What Are the Implications of This Study?

The findings of this study could have important implications for doctors who are trying to identify patients who are at risk of premature death.

While low libido itself is not a direct risk factor for mortality, it could be a useful tool for doctors to screen patients and identify those who are at risk of underlying health issues that could contribute to early death.

Additionally, the study highlights the importance of sexual health as a component of overall health and wellbeing.

The researchers note that sexual dysfunction is often considered a taboo topic, and that many people may not feel comfortable discussing their sex lives with their doctors. However, the findings suggest that addressing sexual health and dysfunction could be an important part of preventing premature death and improving overall quality of life.

Conclusion

While more research is needed to fully understand the link between low libido and premature death, the findings of this study are concerning.

Decreased sexual function could be an early sign of underlying health problems, and could serve as a warning sign for doctors to identify patients who are at risk of premature death. The study highlights the importance of sexual health as a component of overall health and wellbeing, and underscores the need for increased awareness and open communication about sexual health and dysfunction.