Good communication is the byword of our time

Preface

Good communication is the byword of our time. Visual images convey
information more coherently and more effectivelythan words. With this in
mind, I have put together an updated Atlas of Erectile Dysfunction to make
available the latest state-of-the-art information as to the causes,
diagnosis and treatment options for this highly prevalent and often distressing
condition.Since both family and nurse practitioners are increasingly
involved in the care of men suffering from erectile dysfunction, Ihave
included some images of other conditions affecting the external genitalia; such
as condylomata acuminata and penilecarcinoma. These problems can
occasionally surface and cause confusion in an erectile dysfunction clinic or
the familypractitioner surgery.

It has been estimated that overall one in ten men suffers from erectile
dysfunction. Although never life-threatening in theusual sense of being
fatal, erectile dysfunction may yet have major effects on quality of life by
causing considerable loss ofselfesteem and often putting important life
relationships in jeopardy.

However, for the first time, we are now able to understand the causes,
pinpoint the diagnosis, and initiate safe and effectivetherapy for the many
sufferers with this disorder. Unfortunately, many doctors and other health-care
professionals stillbecome uneasy at the thought of a frank and open
discussion concerning matters of sexual dysfunction. Much of this taboo
isdue to a lack of understanding of the causes and awareness of the remedies
now available for the problem. It is my hoped-forintention that this second
edition of the atlas will provide clinicians with easy access to the information
that they require tobring up the subject with their patients and alleviate
the often considerable anxiety and distress endured not only by the manymen
afflicted by erectile dysfunction, but by their partners as well.

Roger S.Kirby

London