Extended working hours and significant workplace stress may be contributing factors to erectile dysfunction in young men, according to a new study. Researchers found that more than half of men with long working weeks experienced high levels of stress and reported difficulties with sexual function.
The study, which analyzed 826 full-time working men aged between 22 and 40, identified a strong correlation between long hours and sexual health issues. Men in the highest-stress group, who worked an average of 65 hours per week, were found to have significantly higher odds of developing erectile dysfunction compared to those working an eight-hour day, considered the least stressful group.
Scientists observed that men experiencing high levels of job-related stress had testosterone levels that were approximately 40% lower than their less-stressed counterparts. This reduction is believed to be linked to elevated levels of the stress hormone cortisol, which can disrupt the body's reproductive system by triggering a 'fight or flight' response. In such a state, the body prioritizes survival over non-essential functions like sexual reproduction.
Reporting in the International Journal of Clinical Practice, the research team found that around 54% of men in the highest-stress category experienced some form of erectile dysfunction, contrasting with only about 8% of men in the lowest-stress group. Among the most stressed participants, approximately one in five suffered moderate to severe erectile dysfunction, compared to about one in 100 in the least-stressed group.
The study also examined other workplace factors contributing to stress, including decision-making autonomy, support from supervisors, relationships with colleagues, and pressure for promotions. While longer working hours emerged as a primary driver, having a supportive boss appeared to offer a protective effect against the condition.
Furthermore, the researchers noted a potential timeline for these physiological changes. Elevated cortisol levels were observed to precede drops in testosterone by two to four weeks, with subsequent declines in erectile function following another four to six weeks later. This suggests a potential window of opportunity to mitigate stress and prevent the deterioration of sexual function.