The Use of Phosphodiesterase 5 Inhibitors Improves Survival in Men After Treatment for Rectal Cancer

Phosphodiesterase type 5 inhibitors (PDE5I) are used to treat erectile dysfunction, as they increase blood flow to the penis during sexual stimulation, supporting erection maintenance. There is limited evidence that their use increases survival in various types of cancer. As treatment for rectal cancer often results in erectile dysfunction, many patients take PDE5Is. This study assessed the association between PDE5I use and survival in rectal cancer patients. Utilizing data from Clalit Health Services in Israel, the analysis included 1,552 patients, with 256 users of PDE5Is. Survival differences were evaluated using non-parametric tests, Cox proportional hazards models, and propensity score matching to control for confounding variables. Results indicated that PDE5I use was significantly associated with improved survival, with a hazard ratio of 0.455 (p< 0.001). The survival benefit persisted after adjusting for covariates and implementing matching procedures. These findings suggest a potential protective effect of PDE5I use on survival in rectal cancer patients, warranting further investigation into underlying mechanisms and clinical implications.