Associations between organic erectile dysfunction and the risk of herpes zoster and postherpetic neuralgia in men

BACKGROUND

Whether erectile dysfunction (ED) leads to considerable stress for affected men remains unclear? In this study, we investigated whether organic ED (OED) is associated with increased risks of herpes zoster (HZ) and postherpetic neuralgia (PHN).

METHODS

A representative subset of Taiwan's National Health Insurance Research Database was employed for this study. Enrollees with OED from the years 2000 to 2018 were selected. To ensure comparability between the case and control groups, we implemented 1:1 propensity score matching based on age, index year, comorbidities, and medications.

RESULTS

The case group included 20,808 patients with OED, while the control group consisted of 20,808 individuals without OED. The OED group exhibited a significantly elevated risk of HZ (adjusted hazard ratio [aHR] = 1.74) and PHN (aHR = 1.56) compared to the non-OED group.

CONCLUSIONS

Men experiencing OED seem to face elevated risks of HZ and PHN compared to those without OED. ED may serve as a warning sign for individuals at HZ risk.

Erectile dysfunction among men with chronic kidney disease undergoing hemodialysis in a Brazilian Amazon urban setting: an epidemiological study

INTRODUCTION

Erectile dysfunction (ED) is a common sexual problem among men with chronic kidney disease (CKD). The severity of sexual dysfunction tends to worsen with kidney damage. This study aims to evaluate the erectile function and sexual quality of life of adult male CKD patients undergoing hemodialysis (HD) in a hospital located in the Brazilian Amazon.

METHODS

A cross-sectional quantitative study was performed within the HD Sector of the Nephrology Unit including men with CKD aged ≥ 18 years, undergoing ≥ 3 weekly HD sessions for ≥ 3 months who had been sexually active for ≥ 6 months. We used the Male Sexual Quotient (MSQ) to measure sexual satisfaction and the International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF5) to establish erectile function. Statistical analysis was performed with SPSS 21.0 using appropriate tests, such as Mann-Whitney and Kruskal-Wallis (P < 0.05).

RESULTS

Ninety-eight patients (51.68 ± 15.28 years) were evaluated. They were primarily married/or living with a partner (60.20%), with HD time between 1 to 5 years (55.10%), and an average KTV of 1.17. ED prevalence was 66.30%, and it was associated with a higher age group (p = 0.01), lower family income (p = 0.02), diabetes (p = 0.01), lower mean corpuscular hemoglobin (p = 0.04), higher total calcium (p = 0.04), and lower albumin (p = 0.03). Around 75% classified their sex life as regular to excellent.

CONCLUSION

Despite the high ED prevalence, most men with CKD in HD reported experiencing regular to excellent sex life. The study underscores the importance of establishing effective screening and conducting routine evaluations regarding sexual issues in these men.

Erectile dysfunction and sleep related bruxism: An exploratory review of an improbable association

The World Health Organization recognizes sexual health as not merely the absence of disease, but a state of physical, mental, and social well-being in relation to one's sexuality. Achieving sexual satisfaction is pivotal for many individuals, as it significantly contributes to their quality of life. Among various sexual disorders, erectile dysfunction (ED) is notably prevalent, affecting an estimated 10-20 million men in the United States alone. This condition impacts not just the person experiencing it but also significantly influences their intimate connections with partners. Although the causes of ED are multifactorial, recent research highlights a compelling association between sleep disorders, such as sleep deprivation, obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), and insomnia, and the incidence of ED. Furthermore, engaging in night work has been observed to exacerbate the risk of developing ED. One common sleep disorder, sleep related bruxism (SRB), despite its prevalence, has not generally been associated with ED. However, there is some interesting evidence hinting at a potential relationship, including a few studies reporting a high prevalence of ED in individuals with SRB. This review delves into the epidemiological, etiological, and mechanistic links between ED and SRB, aiming to uncover potential intersections between these two conditions. These insights could pave the way for innovative research avenues, possibly exploring treatments like vasodilation medication, that might concurrently address both ED and SRB.

Post-infection erectile dysfunction risk - comparing COVID-19 with other common acute viral infections: a large national claims database analysis

It is unknown if the risk of erectile dysfunction (ED) following Coronavirus-19 (COVID-19) infection is virus-specific. Our study assessed the risk of ED in COVID-19 patients as compared to patients with other common viral infections. The TriNetX COVID-19 Research Network was queried. We examined cohorts of men aged ≥18 years infected with: COVID-19, influenza, respiratory syncytial virus, enterovirus, acute viral hepatitis, mononucleosis, and herpes zoster. Men were included if they had at least one outpatient follow-up visit within 18 months and excluded if they had one of the other viruses of interest or a prior ED diagnosis or treatment, prostatectomy, pelvis radiation, or chronic hepatitis infection. Cohorts were propensity score matched and compared for differences in new ED diagnosis and/or prescription of phosphodiesterase-5 inhibitors (PDE5i). COVID-19 positive men were less likely to develop ED or have a PDE5i prescription than men with infected with herpes zoster [Relative Risk (RR): 0.37, 95% Confidence Interval (CI) 0.27-0.49] and more likely to develop ED or have a PDE5i prescription than men with no acute viral illness (RR: 1.33, 95% CI 1.25-1.42). In this national propensity-matched cohort study comparing post-infection ED risk and PDE5i prescriptions, we found that COVID-19 was no more likely to result in a diagnosis of ED or prescription of PDE5i when compared to all acute viral illnesses except herpes zoster, which was more likely to result in a diagnosis of ED or prescription of PDE5i when compared to COVID-19. These findings suggest an inflammatory etiology (perhaps due to cytokine release, endothelial dysfunction, or blunted hormone signaling) behind any acute infection can result in a heightened ED risk; however, further studies are required to investigate the connection between other viral infections and ED.

Metabolic acidosis and sexual dysfunction in chronic kidney disease in predialysis group: Cross-sectional study from a single center

OBJECTIVES

This study aimed to investigate the prevalence of sexual disorders in stage 2 - 5 chronic kidney disease (CKD) during predialysis and its relationship with laboratory parameters.

METHODS AND RESULTS

This cross-sectional study included 110 predialysis patients and 110 healthy controls admitted to clinics. The International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF) and Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI) were used. Sexual dysfunction was detected in 76% of female patients and 31.4% of the control group, and the FSFI total and subscale scores of the patients were significantly lower than those of the control group. The frequency of erectile dysfunction in male patients and controls was 56.7% and 33.3%, respectively. The erectile function, sexual satisfaction, and overall satisfaction scores on the IIEF scale were significantly lower than those in the control group. Low glomerular filtration rate, high calcium levels, increased C-reactive protein, anemia, and metabolic acidosis in male and female patients, and testosterone deficiency in male patients were associated with sexual dysfunction. In multiple regression analysis, eGFR was the only independent variable associated with sexual dysfunction. Luteinizing hormone (LH) and prolactin levels increased as the disease progressed in men and women with sexual dysfunction, while testosterone levels decreased in male patients. Low testosterone levels were related to erectile dysfunction. The increase in parathormone and prolactin levels was related to loss of libido in the male and female patient groups.

CONCLUSION

Metabolic acidosis and low eGFR appear to be the most important risk factors contributing to sexual disorders in patients with CKD.

Erectile Dysfunction in Adolescents and Young Adults

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

The goal of this paper is to provide a summary of the recent research, evaluation, work-up, and treatment recommendations regarding erectile dysfunction in adolescents and young adults to better equip pediatric urologists to manage patients with this condition.

RECENT FINDINGS

The latest research regarding erectile dysfunction in this population includes organic and psychogenic etiologies, correlations between the COVID-19 pandemic, and online pornography consumption. In our large pediatric urology practice, we found an 31x increase of adolescent males presenting with erectile dysfunction since 2014. The majority of cases are attributed to a psychogenic etiology such as anxiety or depression. It is likely that with stress from anxiety and depression, cortisol levels rise, increasing vascular resistance and leading erectile dysfunction in this population. Most patients want to be reassured of normal testosterone levels, offered cognitive behavioral therapy, and be rehabilitated with tadalafil starting at 5 mg p.o. daily until tapered.

Causal association between antidiabetic drugs and erectile dysfunction: evidence from Mendelian randomization

Background

Antidiabetic drugs are widely used in clinical practice as essential drugs for the treatment of diabetes. The effect of hypoglycemic drugs on erectile dysfunction has not been fully proven due to the presence of multiple confounding factors.

Methods

Two-sample Mendelian randomization (TSMR) was used to examine the causal effect of antidiabetic drugs (including metformin, insulin and gliclazide) on erectile dysfunction. We used five robust analytic methods, of which the inverse variance weighting (IVW) method was the primary method, and also assessed factors such as sensitivity, pleiotropy, and heterogeneity. Effect statistics for exposures and outcomes were downloaded from publicly available data sets, including open Genome-Wide Association Studies (GWAS) and the UK Biobank (UKB).

Results

In some of the hypoglycemic drug use, there was a significant causal relationship between metformin use and erectile dysfunction [Beta: 4.9386; OR:1.396E+02 (95% CI:9.13-2135); p-value: 0.0004), suggesting that metformin increased the risk of erectile dysfunction development. Also, we saw that gliclazide use also increased the risk of erectile dysfunction [Beta: 11.7187; OR:0.0125 (95% CI:12.44-1.21E+09); P value: 0.0125). There was no significant causal relationship between insulin use and erectile dysfunction [Beta: 3.0730; OR:21.6071 (95% CI:0.24-1942.38); p-value: 0.1806).Leave-one-out, MR-Egger, and MR-PRESSO analyses produced consistent results.

Conclusion

The use of metformin and gliclazide have the potential to increase the risk of erectile dysfunction. There is no causal relationship between the use of insulin and erectile dysfunction.

Associations of remaining teeth number, periodontal disease, and occlusal support status with erectile dysfunction in community-dwelling men

OBJECTIVES

Several systematic reviews and meta-analyses have reported positive relationships between erectile dysfunction (ED) and periodontal disease. However, no study has evaluated the relationships of occlusal support status and the number of remaining teeth with ED. The aim of the present study was to investigate the relationships between ED and the remaining teeth number, periodontal disease, and occlusal support status.

METHODS

This study included 400 community-dwelling men. Periodontal health status and occlusal support condition were evaluated using the Community Periodontal Index (CPI) and Eichner classification. Multivariable analyses were performed to evaluate the relationships between ED and the remaining teeth number, periodontal disease, and occlusal support status.

RESULTS

The median age was 53 years. Of the 400 men, 333 (83%) were classified into ED group. In univariable analyses, remaining teeth number, CPI score, and Eichner classification were significantly associated with ED. In multivariable analyses, the remaining teeth number (odds ratio [OR]: 0.907, p = 0.114) and CPI score (OR: 0.978, p = 0.864) were not significantly associated with ED, whereas the Eichner classification was independently and significantly associated with ED (OR: 3.490, p = 0.042).

CONCLUSIONS

Poor occlusal support status was significantly associated with ED in community-dwelling men, as opposed to remaining teeth number and periodontal health status.

Prior COVID-19 infection associated with increased risk of newly diagnosed erectile dysfunction

We sought to assess if COVID-19 infection recovery is associated with increased rates of newly diagnosed erectile dysfunction. Using IBM MarketScan, a commercial claims database, men with prior COVID-19 infection were identified using ICD-10 diagnosis codes. Using this cohort along with an age-matched cohort of men without prior COVID-19 infection, we assessed the incidence of newly diagnosed erectile dysfunction. Covariates were assessed using a multivariable model to determine association of prior COVID-19 infection with newly diagnosed erectile dysfunction. 42,406 men experienced a COVID-19 infection between January 2020 and January 2021 of which 601 (1.42%) developed new onset erectile dysfunction within 6.5 months follow up. On multivariable analysis while controlling for diabetes, cardiovascular disease, smoking, obesity, hypogonadism, thromboembolism, and malignancy, prior COVID-19 infection was associated with increased risk of new onset erectile dysfunction (HR 1.27; 95% CI 1.1-1.5; P = 0.002). Prior to the widespread implementation of the COVID-19 vaccine, the incidence of newly diagnosed erectile dysfunction is higher in men with prior COVID-19 infection compared to age-matched controls. Prior COVID-19 infection was associated with a 27% increased likelihood of developing new-onset erectile dysfunction when compared to those without prior infection.

Association between the systemic immune-inflammation index and erectile dysfunction: A cross-sectional study

BACKGROUND

Erectile dysfunction (ED) is associated with inflammation. The systematic immune-inflammation index (SII), as a new inflammation marker, was applied to predict the risk of diseases. However, no research explores the relationship between SII and ED. Hence, the purpose of this study was to investigate the association between SII and ED.

METHODS

Related data were obtained from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) 2001-2004. Based on self-report, all participants were classified into ED and non-ED group. Weighted multivariate regression analysis the relationship between categorical SII and ED in unadjusted and adjusted models. Restricted cubic spline (RCS) was used to examine the association of continuous SII and ED risk. Furthermore, the association between categorical SII and the risk of ED was evaluated among subgroups of age, body mass index, hypertension, diabetes and cardiovascular disease. Finally, weighted multivariate regression analysis and RCS were performed to assessed the connection between SII and the risk of severe ED.

RESULTS

Initially, data on 21,161 participants were obtained. After implementing the inclusion and exclusion criteria, 3436 participants were included in analyses. Weighted multivariate regression analysis demonstrated that Q4 group SII was associated with an increased risk of ED (OR = 1.03, 95% confidence intervals: 1.00-1.05, p = .03). RCS showed SII was nonlinearly associated with the risk of ED, and the inflection point of SII was at 485.530. In addition, subgroup analyses demonstrated that participants in the SII > 485.530 group had a higher ED risk than SII ≤ 485.530 group among subgroups of age ≥50, hypertension, and non-diabetes. Weighted multivariate regression analysis and RCS found no relationship of SII and the risk of severe ED.

CONCLUSION

In US adults, SII > 485.530 was correlated with an increased risk of ED. While, no significant association between SII and severe ED risk. Additional studies are required to support our results.

The Association Between Atypical Masturbation and Male Sexual Dysfunction: A Study Based on Men in Heterosexual Relationships

We aimed to establish the prevalence of atypical masturbation in the general population and explore the association between atypical masturbation and male sexual dysfunction in heterosexual males. Atypical masturbation refers to stimulation significantly distinct from that encountered during partnered sexual activity. We posted questionnaires that contained the abridged International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF-6) and the premature ejaculation diagnostic tool on social media in China. We collected 2743 valid questionnaires from December 9, 2020, to April 18, 2021. We found that the prevalence of atypical masturbation in the general population was 10.97%. Men with atypical masturbation had lower IIEF-6 scores and higher rates of erectile dysfunction (ED) than men with typical masturbation. The prevalence of premature ejaculation and estimated intravaginal ejaculatory latency time were not significantly different among men with different patterns of masturbation. Our study demonstrated that atypical masturbation is associated with ED, and a clinician dealing with sexual issues should inquire more fully about masturbation patterns than has been done to date.

Association between ankle-brachial blood pressure index and erectile dysfunction in US adults: a large population-based cross-sectional study

Background

Erectile dysfunction (ED) is a very common condition among adult men and its prevalence increases with age. The ankle-brachial blood pressure index (ABPI) is a noninvasive tool used to assess peripheral vascular disease (PAD) and vascular stiffness. However, the association between ABPI and ED is unclear. We aimed to explore the association between ABPI and ED in the US population.

Methods

Our study used data from two separate National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) datasets (2001-2002 and 2003-2004). Survey-weighted logistic regression models were used to explore the association between ABPI as a continuous variable and quartiles with ED. We further assessed the association between ABPI and ED using restricted cubic regression while selecting ABPI thresholds using two-piecewise Cox regression models. In addition, we performed subgroup analyses stratified by BMI, race, marital status, diabetes, and hypertension.

Main outcome measure

ABPI was calculated by dividing the mean systolic blood pressure at the ankle by the mean systolic blood pressure at the arm.

Results

Finally, 2089 participants were enrolled in this study, including 750 (35.90%) ED patients and 1339 (64.10%) participants without ED. After adjusting for all confounding covariates, logistic regression analyses showed a significant association between ABPI and ED (OR=0.19; 95% CI, 0.06-0.56, P=0.01); with ABPI as a categorical variable, compared with the lowest quartile, the OR and 95% CI for the second quartile were 0.58 (0.34-0.97; P = 0.04).Besides, splines indicated that there was an L-shaped relationship between ABPI levels and the risk of ED. Piecewise Cox regression demonstrated the inflection point at 1.14, below which the OR for ED was 0.06 (0.02-0.20; P < 0.001), and above which the OR was 2.79 (0.17-4.53; P = 0.469).

Conclusion

In our study, lower ABPI was independently associated with ED risk. In addition, the lowest ABPI level associated with ED risk was 1.14, below this level, lower ABPI was associated with higher ED risk.

Association between erectile dysfunction and the prevalence and prognosis of hyperglycemia in adults in the USA based on NHANES 2001-2004

Prior research has demonstrated that erectile dysfunction (ED) is a significant risk factor for cardiovascular disease (CVD) and premature mortality. Few studies have examined the link between ED and hyperglycemia, and the predictive power of ED for mortality in individuals with hyperglycemia. A cohort of 1584 adults diagnosed with hyperglycemia, consisting of 583 individuals with diabetes and 1001 individuals with prediabetes, was selected from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) conducted between 2001 and 2004. The study found a positive correlation between severe ED and hyperglycemia (OR, 2.03; 95% CI 1.53-2.68), while no significant relationship was observed between severe ED and CVD events (OR, 1.60; 95% CI 0.91-2.80). Additionally, no statistical association was found between diabetes or prediabetes status and ED. After multivariable adjustments, severe ED was found to be significantly associated with an increased risk of all-cause mortality (HR, 1.67; 95% CI 1.16-2.39), while no significant association was observed between severe ED and CVD mortality (HR, 1.92; 95% CI 0.92-3.98). Our study indicates a significant correlation between ED and hyperglycemia status. Hyperglycemia Individuals with ED generally exhibited an unfavorable prognosis for mortality due to all causes and CVD, particularly among those with low levels of physical activity.

Time-dependent analysis of erectile dysfunction in kidney transplant recipients: insights from four distinct time periods

BACKGROUND AND INTENTION

Erectile dysfunction (ED) is an underappreciated clinical condition in men. This study aims to compare the dynamic changes in the distribution of ED among male kidney transplant recipients (mKTRs) in four epochs: end-stage renal disease period (ESRDp), early post-transplant period (EPTP), pre-COVID-19, and post-COVID-19.

METHODS

General information was gathered through interviews, follow-ups, and medical records. The International Index of Erectile Function Questionnaire-5 was used to assess erectile function. The Mann-Whitney U test and chi-square test were used to analyze differences in ED strength. Univariate and logistic regression analyses were conducted to identify risk factors for ED.

RESULTS

The database contains 230 mKTRs. In the ESRDp, 17.0% had normal erectile function, 53.5% had mild ED, 18.3% had moderate ED, and 11.3% had severe ED. In the EPTP, the distribution was 38.2% normal, 42.6% mild, 10.8% moderate, and 8.2% severe. In the pre-COVID-19 period, it was 34.3%, 47.3%, 10.4%, and 7.8%, and in the post-COVID-19 period, it was 23.0%, 45.6%, 21.3%, and 10.0%. Overall, erectile function improved after kidney transplant (KT). However, post-COVID-19, the proportion of erectile function significantly decreased compared to EPTP and pre-COVID-19 periods. Risk factors for post-pandemic ED included degree, Generalized Anxiexy Disorder-7, kidney donor type, postoperative time, hypertension and hemoglobin concentration.

CONCLUSION

KT improves erectile function in mKTRs within 5 years, but post-SARS-CoV-2 viral infection, ED worsens due to altered risk factors. These findings inform future research for comprehensive ED prevention and management strategies in this population.

Association of the hemoglobin, albumin, lymphocyte, and platelet score with the risk of Erectile dysfunction: a cross-sectional study

Erectile dysfunction (ED) is related to nutritional and inflammatory factors. The hemoglobin, albumin, lymphocyte, and platelet score (HALP), a new index reflecting the nutritional and inflammatory status, has been associated with a higher risk of diabetic retinopathy, particularly at lower values (≤ 42.9). However, studies focusing on the relationship between HALP and ED risk are scarce. Hence, this study aimed to investigate the association between HALP and ED. Data were extracted from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) conducted between 2001 and 2004. Based on self-reported data, participants were classified into either the ED group or the non-ED group. Next, the HALP score was categorized into four quartiles (Q1-4). Weighted multivariate regression analysis was performed to assess the relationship between categorical HALP and ED risk. Additionally, restricted cubic spline (RCS) analysis was conducted to examine the association between continuous HALP scores and ED risk. Furthermore, subgroup analyses were conducted to examine the association between categorical HALP and the risk of ED based on age, as well as the status of hypertension, diabetes and cardiovascular disease. Finally, a mediation analysis was carried out to investigate the mediating effect of HALP and related parameters on the association between urinary cobalt levels and ED. Initially, the data of 21,161 participants were collected. After implementing the inclusion and exclusion criteria, 3406 participants were included in the final analyses. Weighted multivariate regression analysis demonstrated that the Q4 HALP group was associated with a lower risk of ED (OR 0.96, 95% confidence intervals 0.92-1.00, P = 0.037). Meanwhile, RCS analysis showed that HALP was nonlinearly associated with the risk of ED. In addition, subgroup analyses demonstrated that participants in the Q3/4 HALP group had a significantly lower ED risk than those in the Q1 group among patients aged ≥ 50 years, as well as those with hypertension and diabetes. Lastly, mediation analysis revealed that HALP and its associated parameters had a marginal average causal mediation effect on the relationship between urinary cobalt levels and ED risk (P > 0.05). In US adults, high HALP scores were correlated with a lower risk of ED. The relationship was more pronounced in participants aged ≥ 50 years with hypertension and diabetes. Furthermore, HALP and its parameters may not mediate the association between urinary cobalt levels and ED risk.

Arthritis increases the risk of erectile dysfunction: Results from the NHANES 2001-2004

Objective

This study assessed the association between erectile dysfunction (ED) and arthritis.

Methods

Weighted logistic regression and subgroup analyses were used to investigate the association between arthritis incidence and ED among participants in the 2001-2004 National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey database.

Results

Among the participants, 27.8% and 18.5% had a self-reported history of ED and arthritis, respectively. ED was associated with arthritis (odds ratio [OR]=4.00; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 3.20-4.99; p<0.001], which remained significant after adjustment (OR=1.42, 95% CI: 1.00-1.96; p<0.001). Stratified by type of arthritis, after full adjustment, osteoarthritis remained significant (OR=1.11; 95% CI: 1.03-1.20; p=0.017), and rheumatoid arthritis (OR=1.03, 95% CI: 0.93-1.13; p= 0.5) and other arthritis (OR=1.04, 95% CI: 0.98-1.11; p=0.2) were not significantly correlated with ED. Multiple inference analyses confirmed the robustness of the results.

Conclusion

Our study showed that arthritis was strongly associated with ED. There is an urgent need to raise awareness and conduct additional research on the reasons behind this association in order to implement more scientific and rational treatment programs for patients with ED and arthritis.

Sexual dysfunction in cystic fibrosis

BACKGROUND

Sexual dysfunction (erectile dysfunction in males, sexual dissatisfaction, sexual interest/arousal disorders, and dyspareunia in females) has not been the subject of indepth research in people with cystic fibrosis (CF). This study aimed to determine the prevalence of sexual dysfunction in adults with CF, factors associated with sexual dysfunction, and the impact of sexual dysfunction on quality of life.

METHOD

We conducted a multicentre study in adults with cystic fibrosis followed in specialist centres in Western France. We assessed erectile dysfunction and its severity using the IIEF5 self-questionnaire (International Index of Erectile Function); the FSFI (Female Sexual Function Index) was used to assess sexual function in females, and we evaluated quality of life in both sexes using the CFQ-R14+ questionnaire.

RESULTS

In total, 77 males and 74 females completed the sexual function questionnaire (mean age 32+/- 10 and 25+/- 8,5 years respectively). Among them, 21 % of males and 30 % of females reported sexual dysfunction. CFQ-R14+ score was significantly lower in males with erectile dysfunction than those without (p < 0.001). Faecal incontinence was associated with more frequent sexual dysfunction in females and higher severity of erectile dysfunction in males.

CONCLUSION

The prevalence of sexual disorders is relatively high in males and females with cystic fibrosis. Therefore, it seems important to train specialist teams to address the issue of sexuality without embarrassment, and to encourage them to seek out and treat faecal incontinence, which is associated with greater severity or frequency of these symptoms.

Semen quality and metabolic profile in people with type 1 diabetes with and without erectile dysfunction: a cross-sectional study

PURPOSE

The aim of the present study is to evaluate the association of metabolic and glycemic variables with semen parameters in patients with type 1 diabetes (T1D) with and without erectile dysfunction (ED).

METHODS

The study population included 88 adults with T1D using a continuous glucose monitoring, of whom 28 with ED (ED group) and 60 without it (NO ED group). All men completed the International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF-5) and underwent body composition analysis (BIA) and semen analysis.

RESULTS

ED group showed worse HbA1c levels [median (IQR), 8.4 (7.7, 9.9) vs 7.4 (7, 8.2) %, P < 0.001)], higher insulin dose [60 (51, 65) vs 45 (38, 56) UI/die, P = 0.004)] and a higher total body water and intracellular water as compared with ED group. Men in the ED group presented higher semen volume [2.8 (2.6, 4.2) vs 2.5 (2.2, 2.7) mL, P < 0.001] and sperm concentration [24 (19, 29) vs 20 (12, 23) mil/mL, P = 0.010], but reduced sperm progressive motility [28 (25, 35) vs 35 (25, 36) %, P = 0.011], higher rate of non-progressive motility [15 (10, 15) vs 10 (5, 10) %, P < 0.001] and higher rate of typical morphology [7(5, 8) vs 5 (4, 5) %, P = 0.001]. Based on multivariate logistic regression analysis performed to assess the association between clinical variables and ED, intracellular water (OR 3.829, 95% CI 1.205, 12.163, P = 0.023) resulted as the only independent predictor of ED.

CONCLUSION

Men with T1D and ED showed worse metabolic profile which is associated with poor semen quality, as compared with those without ED.

Association of METS-IR index with prevalence of erectile dysfunction in US adults: a cross-sectional study

BACKGROUND

Insulin resistance (IR) is involved in the development of erectile dysfunction (ED). The purpose of this study was to assess the correlation between the metabolic score for IR (METS-IR) index and risk of erectile dysfunction in US adults.

METHODS

This study selected individuals from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES). Logistic regression analysis, subgroup analysis, and dose-response curve analysis were carried out to assess the relationship between the METS-IR index and ED prevalence.

RESULTS

This study ultimately included 1759 participants aged ≥ 20 years, of whom 512 self-reported a history of ED. After adjusting for all confounders, each unit increase in METS-IR index was associated with a 3% increase in erectile dysfunction prevalence (OR = 1.03, 95% CI: 1.01-1.04). In almost all subgroups, an increased METS-IR index was associated with a higher prevalence of ED. The dose-response curve displayed a positive non-linear connection between METS-IR value and the prevalence of ED.

CONCLUSION

The study found a positive association between the METS-IR index and ED. METS-IR is useful as a simplified IR evaluation index for early identification of people with high risk of ED.

Relationship between dietary niacin intake and erectile dysfunction: a population-based study

Existing research on the precise link between dietary niacin intake and erectile dysfunction (ED) is scarce. Thus, this study aimed to investigate the potential association between dietary niacin intake and the risk of ED. Multivariate logistic regression and restricted cubic splines (RCSs) were used to examine the relationship between dietary niacin intake and ED. Subgroup interaction analysis was performed to assess the impact of different subgroups on the study outcomes. In addition, 1:1 propensity score matching (PSM) was employed to adjust for potential confounding factors, ensuring the reliability of the results. The analyzed data were collected from the 2001-2004 National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) in the USA. The study encompassed 3184 adults, among whom 863 participants were identified as having ED. Following adjustments for potential confounders, the findings revealed that higher niacin intake, specifically in the highest tertile, was associated with a decreased risk of ED compared to that in the lowest tertile, showing an odds ratio (OR) of 0.56 (95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.37-0.85). Analysis of dose-response curves illustrated a negative correlation between dietary niacin intake and the risk of ED. Subgroup and interaction analyses fortified the consistency of these results. Furthermore, PSM corroborated the validity of the findings. This study suggests an inverse association between dietary niacin intake and the risk of ED. However, establishing a cause-and-effect relationship remains elusive, and defining the safe threshold of niacin intake to prevent ED requires further investigation.

The association between uric acid and erectile dysfunction in US adults: NHANES 2001-2004

BACKGROUND

-Recent evidence suggests that hyperuricemia may act as independent risk factors for erectile dysfunction (ED), in addition to the already established factors. The current evidence supporting this relationship remains insufficient.

METHODS AND RESULTS

-A total of 3,810 participants from the NHANES pool between 2001 and 2004 were included in our study, comprising 1,093 individuals with ED and 2,717 individuals without ED. Univariable and multivariable logistic regression analyses were conducted to examine the relationship between uric acid (UA) and the prevalence of ED. In the fully adjusted model, no significant association was observed between UA and ED (OR = 1.02, 95% CI: 0.84-1.24), and no significant differences were noted among the various UA levels (p = 0.5). In our sensitivity analyses, employing a stricter definition for ED, no significant results were found in the fully adjusted model (OR = 0.85, 95% CI: 0.60-1.19). Furthermore, no significant differences were observed among the various UA levels (p = 0.083).

CONCLUSIONS

-Our study did not establish a correlation between UA levels and ED. Nonetheless, further research with larger sample cohorts is required to verify these findings.

Prevalence of new onset erectile dysfunction among Damietta governorate men after contracting COVID-19

BACKGROUND

Several reports showed that sexual function was affected during and after the COVID-19 pandemic.

AIMS

The objective of the study was to demonstrate whether a realistic association exists between the COVID-19 pandemic and erectile dysfunction (ED) among a sampled Egyptian population in Damietta governorate.

METHODS

This cross-sectional study consisted of 330 adult males diagnosed with COVID-19 infection. They were categorized in three age groups (18-29, 30-39, and 40-50 years, respectively). COVID-19-confirmed cases were assessed by the Arabic version of the International Index of Erectile Function questionnaire (IIEF) scores.

RESULTS

The prevalence of ED according to the IIEF was 55.1%. The ED was categorized into mild ED which represents 25.8% of the patients, mild to moderate which represents 22.4% of the patients, moderate which represents 7% of the patients, and severe which represents 0% of the patients. We found a significant negative correlation between the age of the patients and the IIEF score. Also, we found an association between the severity of COVID-19 infection and the IIEF score.

CONCLUSION

An association of new-onset ED in men who suffered COVID-19 infection was established. This may be due to virus-induced endothelial cell dysfunction; however, an underlying mechanism and causation have not yet been clearly elucidated. While it appears that COVID-19 infection may be a risk factor for ED, additional research is needed to establish causality.

Association between cardiometabolic index and erectile dysfunction among US adults: a cross-sectional analysis of the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey 2001-2004

The aim of this study was to assess the association between a new metabolic index, the cardiometabolic index (CMI) and erectile dysfunction (ED). The data for this study relied on the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES), a cross-sectional database, between 2001 and 2004. The CMI was calculated as the following formula: Triglyceride (TG) (mmol/L)/ High density lipid-cholesterol (HDL-C) (mmol/L) ×waist-height ratio (WHtR). The multivariate logistic regression analyses were conducted to assess the association between CMI and ED, supplemented by subgroup analysis and dose-response curves. Finally, a total of 1367 adult male participants were identified, and the mean CMI was 0.83 ± 0.02. Multivariate logistic regression analysis showed that in model 2 controlling for all potential confounders, CMI was significantly associated with ED (OR = 1.49, 95% CI: 1.09, 2.04) (p = 0.017). Subsequently, we convert the CMI from a continuous variable to a categorical variable (Tertiles). The results showed that male participants in CMI Tertile 3 group had a higher risk of ED than those in Tertile 1 group in model 2 (OR = 2.07, 95% CI: 1.12, 3.83, P = 0.024). The subgroup analysis of model 2 demonstrated that CMI was significantly associate with ED in participants aged ≥50 y (OR = 2.31, 95% CI: 1.35, 3.95, P = 0.005), body mass index (BMI) > 30 kg/m2 (OR = 1.78, 95% CI: 1.10, 2.90, P = 0.023), with hypertension (OR = 1.89, 95% CI: 1.63, 3.45, P = 0.020), with diabetes mellitus (OR = 1.67, 95% CI: 1.13, 2.47, P = 0.015), with cardiovascular disease (CVD) (OR = 1.54, 95% CI: 1.12, 2.10, P = 0.011) and smoking (OR = 2.07, 95% CI: 1.26, 3.39, P = 0.007). This study demonstrates a strong association between CMI and ED and an increased risk of ED with higher CMI levels. More prospective studies with large samples and good designs are needed to validate our results in the future.

The impact of hyperthyroidism on sexual functions in men and women: a systematic review and meta-analysis

This study aimed to review the current knowledge on sexual dysfunction in men and women with hyperthyroidism through a systematic review and meta-analysis. Available clinical trials from the MEDLINE database were searched using a prerecorded protocol (Protocol Prospero ID: CRD42022340587), and obtained data were analyzed and reported according to the PRISMA guidelines. Pooled effect estimates were computed using a random-effects model. Twenty eligible studies were identified, of which 15 were included in this meta-analysis. The prevalence of erectile dysfunction was significantly higher in participants with hyperthyroidism than that in controls [odds ratio = 9.16 (95% confidence interval [CI], 5.0-16.5)]. Treatment of hyperthyroidism alone improved erectile functions [effect size, ES = 0.36 (95% CI, -0.01-72)] and mean intra-vaginal ejaculation latency time [ES = 0.63 (95% CI, 0.27-98)] among men with erectile dysfunction and/or premature ejaculation. The prevalence of premature ejaculation also decreased with treatment of hyperthyroidism [odds ratio = 0.11 (95% CI, 0.04-28). Women with hyperthyroidism demonstrated higher odds in female sexual dysfunction than controls [odds ratio = 4.34 (95% CI, 2.63-7.18)]. Female sexual function index scores in women with hyperthyroidism were also significantly lower than those in the controls with moderate effect sizes. An evident and reversible disruption of sexual functions under hyperthyroidism conditions was observed in both sexes.