February 11, 2010 – Men who have at least 2 sex a week are less likely to develop heart disease, according to a US study of 1,000 men aged 40 to 70 years.
Erectile problems can represent a risk factor for cardiovascular disease, emphasize the researchers who wanted to verify if other aspects of sexuality could have an influence on the health of the heart.
According to the results, participants who had sex twice or more per week reduced their risk of developing cardiovascular disease by 45% compared to those who had sex once or less per month.
The frequency of sex is thought to have an effect on erectile function and physical condition, the study authors say. According to them, having sex is a form of physical activity that would protect cardiovascular health.
The study took place over a period of 16 years. Participants were met 3 times and answered a series of questions about their sex life, including how often they had sex. The researchers also checked their age, weight, blood pressure and cholesterol. All of the men were in good heart health at the start of the study2.
In addition, a study conducted by the Mayo Clinic in the United States and published in 2009 revealed that men who had suffered from erectile dysfunction in their forties had their risk of developing heart disease increased.2.
Carole Boulé – PasseportSanté.net
According to Indianinfo.com and CBS News.
1. Hall SA et al. Sexual Activity, Erectile Dysfunction, and Incident Cardiovascular Events, The American Journal of Cardiology, 2010; 105: 192-197.
2. Read about this in our new Erectile Dysfunction: A Warning Sign of Heart Disorder?