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Research News

Study links varicoceles to heart disease and diabetes

BMJ 2017; 359 doi: https://doi.org/10.1136/bmj.j5569 (Published 01 December 2017) Cite this as: BMJ 2017;359:j5569
  1. Jacqui Wise
  1. London

Men with varicoceles appear to be more likely to develop cardiovascular disease and diabetes than those without the condition, according to a study published in Andrology.1

Varicoceles occur in around 15% of men. The enlarged veins are thought to allow more blood to flow through the scrotum, raising the temperature above normal levels. This can lead to lower sperm and testosterone production. The condition is usually left untreated unless it causes pain or impairs reproductive function.

Researchers from Stanford School of Medicine examined a database containing the …

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