A comparative cross-sectional study investigating prevalence and patterns of sexual dysfunction among hypertensive and non-hypertensive men

Abstract

Background and Aims: Erectile dysfunction is prevalent among men with hypertension, but there is paucity of data on prevalence of other domains of sexual dysfunction (SD) in hypertensives and the general population. The study compared the prevalence and patterns of SD among treated hypertensive male patients with normotensive men. The effect of antihypertensive drugs on different domains of sexual function was also investigated in our study. Methods: A total of 195 participants (95 hypertensive and 100 non-hypertensive men) were recruited from the medical out-patient department of a secondary health care facility in Lagos, Nigeria. Sexual function was assessed using International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF) which measures erectile function, orgasmic function, sexual desire, intercourse satisfaction, and overall satisfaction. Results: Sexual dysfunction affecting at least one domain was present in 82.1% of the hypertensive subjects and 52% of non-hypertensive controls (P<0.001). The hypertensive patient had more severe dysfunction in the multiple domains (p< 0.001). The use of methyldopa, furosemide and ß-blockers were associated with significantly lower scores while there was no significant difference in scores with the use calcium channel blockers, angiotensin converting enzyme inhibitors, angiotensin receptor blockers, thiazide and potassium sparing diuretics. SD was higher in the older age group and with longer duration of hypertension and treatment. Conclusion: SD is common in the adult male population with hypertension significantly increasing the risk. Hypertension is associated with involvement of multiple domains for sexual dysfunction. Use of methyldopa, furosemide and ß-blockers were associated with higher rates of SD in the hypertensive population.