Boozing is bad for your sex life – survey

LMOST half of South African men could be at risk of erectile dysfunction because of excessive drinking, according to a survey released yesterday.

The survey found 44 percent of the country’s men were at risk, said Pharma Dynamics, a pharmaceutical firm specialising in men’s sexual health.

Studies suggested three or more alcoholic drinks a week impaired erectile function and sexual satisfaction.

“A sobering thought, since more than 31 percent of South African males already consume over five glasses of alcohol a week and 13 percent toss back at least three glasses a week on a regular basis.”

Over 500 men between the ages of 18 and 55 participated in the national survey, conducted during June and July this year.

According to the World Health Organisation’s latest report on alcohol and health, South Africa had the highest alcohol consumption rate in Africa.

Pharma Dynamics spokesman Tumi Motsei said: “Men under the influence of alcohol may feel more sexual and have a stronger desire, but alcohol hampers your performance.

“The liver can only break down the amount of alcohol in about one standard size drink an hour, so regularly drinking more than that means toxins can build up in your body and affect your organs, including those involved in sex,” he said.

Men dependent on alcohol had a 60 to 70 percent chance of suffering sexual problems. According to the survey four in every 10 South African men were currently affected.

Men with erectile dysfunction were twice as likely to have a heart attack, 10 percent more likely to have a stroke and 20 percent more likely to be admitted to hospital for heart failure.

“Impotence is an early warning sign that cardiovascular disease may be looming,” Motsei said. – Sapa

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