Every extra hour on computer at leisure increases chances of impotence - study

Analysis of data from over 200,000 men showed that every additional 1.2 hours of computer use in leisure time increased the likelihood of erectile dysfunction by 3.57 times, according to a research article in Andrology (via Interesting Engineering).

At the same time, other daily activities, such as watching TV or driving a car, did not show similar results. There is also no evidence that computer use is associated with depression, anxiety, or vascular health.

The use of computers has long been associated with a decrease in follicle-stimulating hormone - a key hormone that plays a role in the reproductive system of both men and women (in men, it stimulates the production of sperm).

Interestingly, researchers observed a lower level of follicle-stimulating hormone in individuals who used the computer "more leisurely."

"This study provided strong evidence of a positive cause-and-effect relationship between computer use and the risk of erectile dysfunction. However, the final cause-and-effect relationship should be established through further research," the authors noted in a statement.

Researchers suggest that men engage in moderate physical activity instead of additional computer use in their leisure time - more exercise reduces the likelihood of developing erectile dysfunction due to a sedentary lifestyle.