Evaluating the Impact of Continuous Glucose Monitoring on Erectile Dysfunction in Type 1 Diabetes: A Focus on Reducing Glucose Variability and Inflammation

Abstract

Type 1 diabetes (T1D) severely impairs metabolic control and can lead to erectile dysfunction (ED) through hyperglycemia-induced vascular damage, autonomic neuropathy, and psychological distress. This review examines the role of continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) in ameliorating ED by addressing glucose variability and inflammation. A comprehensive analysis of studies and clinical trials was conducted to evaluate the impact of CGM on metabolic control, inflammatory responses, and vascular health in patients with T1D. Evidence suggests that CGM systems significantly stabilize blood glucose levels and reduce hyper- and hypoglycemic episodes that contribute to endothelial dysfunction and ED. CGM’s real-time feedback helps patients optimize metabolic control, improve vascular health, and reduce inflammation. CGM has the potential to redefine ED management in patients with T1D by improving glycemic control and reducing the physiological stressors that cause ED, potentially improving quality of life and sexual health. Further research is warranted to explore the specific benefits of CGM for ED management.

Keywords

• type 1 diabetes
• erectile dysfunction
• continuous glucose monitoring
• autonomic neuropathy
• glucose variability
• endothelial dysfunction