Oral medications used to treat erectile dysfunction do not cause melanoma, a dangerous form of skin cancer, according to a recent review published in the Journal of the National Cancer Institute.

Past research has suggested a possible link between phosphodiesterase type 5 (PDE5) inhibitors and melanoma.  But this new review, incorporating 5 studies involving over 860,000 men casts doubt.

The researchers did find a higher risk for melanoma in men who took ED drugs. However, among these men, risk was higher for those who took small amounts. These men were also more likely to have early stage melanoma, not advanced disease.

These findings led the authors to conclude that there was no cause and effect relationship.

Instead, it appears that lifestyle habits, such as routine doctor's visits and melanoma screening, are involved.

For more details on the authors' conclusions, please click here.

There is still time to apply for an ISSM research grant, but the application deadline is quickly approaching!

The ISSM Board of Directors has allocated USD 50,000 to grant applications submitted by ISSM-Affiliated Societies in 2017. Funded research grants should support one or more of the following missions:

• Public education and awareness of Sexual Medicine
• Training of professionals in the field of Sexual Medicine
• Basic research in the field of Sexual Medicine
• Clinical research in the field of Sexual Medicine

Awards for the ISSM Grants are for the following amounts:

• up to USD 10,000 for 1-year projects
• up to USD 15,000 for 2-year projects

Please note that indirect and/or overhead costs may not be included in these awards.

​More information, including a link to the grant application form, is available here. Please keep in mind that all application materials must be received by the ISSM Executive Office before June 30, 2017 and should be submitted by the affiliated societies (APSSM, ESSM, ISSWSH, MESSM, SASSM, SLAMS, and SMSNA). Individual applications will not be accepted.