Relationship between obesity-related metabolic abnormalities and sexual function.

Obesity is increasing worldwide. In fact, within the next 20 years it is likely to become an epidemic condition. As obesity is characterized by a variety of severe co-morbidities, it imposes a tremendous burden to health care systems of western societies. Among these, although less recognised, there is also sexual dysfunction. This short review will first give some details about the prevalence of sexual dysfunction among obese people, and then focus on the role of obesity in the negative modulation of sexuality. In detail, it will be reported about the 3 possible mechanisms through which obese people may suffer from sexual dysfunction: a) insulin resistance and associated hormonal changes, b) dyslipidemia and related drugs, and c) psychological problems.