Why men with low sex drive may die early – Study

A Japanese study has revealed that men who suffer from low sex drive are almost twice as likely to die early. The researchers found that low sex drive is often a symptom of more serious health problems that can increase the risk of chronic disease, including cardiovascular issues, obesity and poor lifestyle habits. They noted that sexual interest is essential for maintaining positive sexual relationships and sexual function, which have been recognised as important indicators of good health and quality of life.

The study, titled “Association between lack of sexual interest and all‑cause mortality in a Japanese general population: The Yamagata prospective observational study,” was published in *PLOS ONE* and led by Prof. Kaori Sakurada of the Department of Fundamental Nursing, Yamagata University Graduate School of Nursing, Yamagata, Japan. It enrolled 20,969 participants—8,558 males and 12,411 females—who took part in annual health check‑ups in Yamagata Prefecture. Their sexual habits and interests were examined over a decade.

The researchers concluded that, in men over 40, a lack of sexual interest itself contributes to an increased risk of all‑cause mortality, independent of established risk factors. They cautioned that some important confounding factors may not have been identified or adjusted for, and the precise ways in which low sexual interest impacts health and longevity remain unknown, though several possibilities exist.

Commenting on the study, Dr. Gabriel Ogah, a consultant urologist at the Ogah Hospital and Urology Centre in Fugar, Edo State, said that good health logically supports a higher libido, and that financial stability can also influence sexual drive. He emphasized that the findings are isolated and that multinational studies are needed before concluding that low sex drive is linked to early death. He added that exercise, a balanced diet, and a healthy weight can increase sex drive.

Both the urologist and the researchers agreed that further investigation is required to clarify the mechanisms underlying the protective effects of sexual interest on mortality.