The Influence of Comorbidities, Risk Factors, and Medications on Sexual Activity in Individuals Aged 40 to 59 Years With and Without Cardiac Conditions: US National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey, 2011 to 2012

Global prevalence of sexual dysfunction in cardiovascular patients: a systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Sexual dysfunction poses a significant challenge for patients with cardiac conditions. Concerning the prevalence of sexual disorders in cardiovascular patients, several seminal studies conducted in various regions of the world have provided diverse facts and figures pertaining to sexual dysfunction among cardiovascular patients. Therefore, the present study aimed to analyze, summarize, and integrate the findings of seminal studies on the effect of underlying factors and estimate the global rate of sexual disorders in cardiovascular patients.

METHODS

The present systematic review and meta-analysis included studies conducted in 2003-2023. To find the relevant published academic papers, SID, MagIran, PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science (WOS), and Google Scholar databases were searched for keywords using MeSH/Emtree until January 14, 2023. The GRADEpro software was used to evaluate the quality of evidence. The heterogeneity of studies was checked using the I2 index.

RESULTS

An initial number of 2122 studies were found in the first search. Following a precise screening process based on predefined inclusion criteria, a total of 17 studies were deemed suitable for inclusion in the meta-analysis. The global prevalence of sexual disorders in cardiovascular patients was estimated at 62.6% (95% CI: 49.8-73.8%). As the results of the meta-regression showed that as the sample size increased, there was a significant decrease in the overall prevalence of sexual disorders among cardiovascular patients. Additionally, as the study years progressed, both age and JBI score exhibited an upward trend.

CONCLUSION

The present findings showed a high prevalence of sexual disorders among cardiovascular patients. Therefore, it is recommended that experts and health policymakers enhance their focus on effectively preventing and controlling these disorders. Besides the evidence achieved very low certainty, it is important for the treatment team to prioritize the sexual relations of cardiovascular patients and focus on improving their sexual function. This should be seen as an essential aspect of their overall recovery process.

Depression, Quality of Life, Physical Activity, and the Impact of Drugs on Sexual Activity in a Population-Based Sample, Ages 20-59 Years

Sexual quality of life is important for many individuals; therefore, this study examined the frequency of depression in a younger and middle-aged population-based sample, and the impact on physical activity, quality of life, and sexual activity, and the role of antidepressant and cardiac drugs on sexual function. The sample, ages 20 to 59 years, completed relevant items for depression, sexual activity, physical activity, quality of life, and drugs. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, Pearson correlations, t-tests, and analysis of variance. Those sexually active had lower mean depression scores and higher ratings of quality of life, while those sexually inactive had greater depression and took more drugs. Thorough assessment of drugs, depression, cardiac and other medical conditions, and interest and engagement in sexual activity should be routinely assessed in all patients, regardless of age.