The Cardiovascular Risk is the probability of an individual developing fatal or non-fatal atherosclerotic cardiovascular event over a given time period. This is the result of the combined effect of several Cardiovascular Risk Factors that may or may not be modifiable.
The event is caused by the accumulation of fatty deposits inside the arteries lumen, known as arteriosclerosis. This, in association with other cardiovascular risk factors named above, increases the risk of heart and vascular disease, either in cerebral vessels or in other peripheral areas.
Population studies have demonstrated that elevated levels of LDL cholesterol (Low Density Lipoprotein) and other apolipoproteins, are directly associated with the risk of having an atherosclerotic cardiovascular event (ASCVE).
The study of cardiovascular risk factors requires a complete medical history, a physical examination and a study with some specific tests. With this information we will achieve an accurate diagnosis and establish a therapeutic plan for preventing a cardiovascular event.
The diagnostic tests in the study of cardiovascular risk factors most frequently used are:
Cardiovascular risk factors (smoking, hyperlipidemia, high blood pressure, diabetes, etc.) are the most common cause of vascular erectile dysfunction. The good news is that we can treat them.
Cardiovascular risk factors (smoking, hyperlipidemia, high blood pressure, diabetes, etc.) are the most common cause of vascular erectile dysfunction. The good news is that we can treat them.
High blood pressure can also cause erectile dysfunction due to the arterial disease it causes.
Hyperlipidemia causes cholesterol to build up in the arteries, leading to peripheral artery disease and increasing the likelihood of erectile dysfunction.
Unhealthy habits such as smoking, obesity, and lack of exercise can contribute to erectile dysfunction by affecting blood flow in the vessels.
Erectile dysfunction can therefore be a marker of cardiovascular risk and could indicate arterial disease in other locations as well (Figs. 1 and 2). For this reason, it is important to conduct a study to specifically address all additional cardiovascular risk factors.
As we have explained before, cardiovascular risk is the effect of the combination of the different cardiovascular risk factors, that’s why an integral approach will be necessary.
Depending on the result of the cardiovascular risk study, an individualized therapeutic plan will be established for each patient. This will generally consist on:
