Effect of Sexual Function on Health-Related Quality of Life Mediated by Depressive Symptoms in Cardiac Rehabilitation. Findings of the SPARK Project in 493 Patients

Abstract

Empirical evidence suggests associations between cardiovascular diseases, sexual functioning, depressive symptoms, and quality of life. However, to date, the interrelation of these constructs has not been examined simultaneously in a structural analysis. To estimate the prevalence of sexual disorders and depressive symptoms and to examine the association between sexual disorders, depressive symptoms, and quality of life in patients in the rehabilitation of cardiovascular disorders. A postal survey in five German inpatient rehabilitation centers for cardiovascular diseases was conducted. Prevalence of sexual disorders and depressive symptoms were assessed using psychometrically sound instruments. To analyze complex associations, structural equation modeling was used. For epidemiological questions, proportions with 95% confidence intervals were calculated. The strength of association in structural equation models was expressed as a standardized regression coefficient. Data from 493 patients were analyzed (response rate 22.7%). At least moderate erectile dysfunction proved to be present in 20.3% of men. The prevalence of female sexual dysfunction lay at 43.1%. At least moderate depressive symptoms were present in 14.4% of men and 16.5% of women. A considerable association between sexual functioning and quality of life was found in both sexes, which was largely mediated by depressive symptoms. Major drawbacks of the study are imprecision of the estimates due to limited sample size and questionable generalizability of the findings due to possible self-selection bias. Considering the high prevalence of depressive symptoms and their role as a mediating factor between sexual functioning and quality of life, it is recommended to routinely screen for depression in men and women with cardiac disease.