Abstract
Background: Erectile dysfunction (ED) is one of the important complications in diabetic patients. Various factors trigger the onset and intensity of erectile dysfunction. This study was done to determine the prevalence of erectile dysfunction and some associated factors among type II-diabetic patients in Birjand, Iran.
Methods: In this cross-sectional study, which was carried out in Birjand during 2008 and 2009, 171 male diabetic patients aged 29 to 76 years who were sexually active and had no history of prostate surgery were included. Data on demographic characteristic and history of diabetes was collected using a questionnaire. International Index of Erectile Dysfunction-5 and Beck's standard questionnaire were used to determine erectile dysfunction and depression, respectively. Data were analyzed using multiple statistical tests including chi square, t-test, and logistic regression.
Results: The mean age of study population was 52.78 [95% CI: 51.25, 54.32] years (range between 29 to 76 years) and 43.3% of individuals were under 50 years. ED was diagnosed in 140 out of 171 (81.9%) diabetic patients. ED was mild in 28 (20%) subjects, moderate in 66 (47.1%), and sever in 46 (32.9%). Suffering from Long-term of diabetes (P < 0.001), progressive depression (P < 0.001), increased level of HbA1c (P < 0.001), and decreased level of HDL (P < 0.001) were among the most related factors with ED.
Conclusion: The prevalence of ED is high among diabetic patients. Control of the disease and its relevant risk factors might be helpful in decreasing sexual dysfunction in diabetic patients.