Bad news for your gamer boyfriend: a new study shows that spending hours on a computer can increase the likelihood of developing erectile dysfunction.

The research, published in the science journal Andrology, has found that there is a strong association between “extended computer usage for leisure” and the risk of developing erectile dysfunction.

Scientists from China analysed more than 220,000 male subjects while they performed ‘leisure’ activities like watching TV, going for a drive, and playing computer games as part of their research. They found for every 1.2 hours spent on a computer, men become 3.57 times more likely to develop erectile dysfunction. 

The research team measured participants' sex hormones during the study and found that computer use was linked to lower levels of follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) in the participants’ blood. In tandem with testosterone, FSH controls sperm production. Low FSH levels have been linked to erectile dysfunction, decreased libido, infertility, and low energy. 

The researchers wrote that “moderate physical activity may help to correct the dysfunction”. However, there was no evidence to suggest that watching TV increased the risk of developing erectile dysfunction, which suggests that being sedentary isn’t the problem.

Further research into the reasons why there is a correlation between computer use and erectile dysfunction is needed. "Whilst this study does not absolutely show cause and effect, it certainly suggests that men who are worried about their erectile function should perhaps get off the computer and become more active,” said University of Manchester professor of andrology Allan Pacey told The Independent. “Studies have already shown that regular exercise can improve erectile function.”