Shanghai Daily News

Erectile dysfunction is not only a physical ailment, but also can seriously infect a man's mental status, self-esteem and relationship with his wife or girlfriend, said medical experts at a meeting to discuss the latest research on and treatment for ED yesterday.

ED treatment should focus on how to improve the patients' life quality, both physically and psychologically, meeting participants said. Doctors should also help patients with their mental problems and family relationships, instead of only caring about the disease itself.

"A healthy and high quality sexual life is very important. Patients should look for professional treatment and medical intervention as soon as possible, as its influences on psychology and family relationship are much more serious than other diseases," said Dr Zhang Yuanfang from Huashan Hospital's urology department.

According to Dr Zhu Jichuan, a member of the male disease branch of the China Medical Association, erectile problems can result in mental disorders, poor confidence and bad relationships.

"A recent survey covering 1,526 men around the world found that ED patients always pay attention to erection quality, sexual partner's satisfaction and whether they can regain confidence through therapy," Zhu said. "Studies show patients' evaluation of their confidence, quality of intercourse and relationship with spouse can increase by 40 percent after effective medical treatment."