Prevalence and Risk Factors for Erectile Dysfunction in 2869 Men Using a Validated Questionnaire

Abstract

Purpose: To assess prevalence and risk factors for erectile dysfunction (ED) by using the International Index of Erectile Function- 5 (IIEF-5) in men undergoing a health investigation. Methods: Men aged 20–80 years participating in a health-screening project in the area of Vienna completed the IIEF-5 for evaluation of ED. In parallel, all men underwent a detailed health examination including physical assessment, evaluation of various life-style factors, medical history and a blood analysis. Results: A total of 2869 men were analysed. According to the IIEF-5 score, 32.2% reported on any degree of ED (IIEF-5 score <22), 23.7% had mild ED (IIEF-5 score 17–21), 5.0% mild to moderate ED (IIEF-5 score 12–16), 2.2% moderate ED (IIEF-5 score 8–11) and 1.3% severe ED (IIEF-5 score 5–7). The proportion of men with ED remained stable from 20 to 50 years (26–29%) and increased thereafter to 37.5% (51–60 years) and to 71.2% in those 71–80 years of age. Severe ED (IIEF-5 score 5–7) increased from 0.4% (20–30 years) to 0.5% (41–50 years), 1.3% (51–60 years) and to 9.6% in those aged 71–80 years. Risk factors for ED were age, diabetes (OR: 3.0; 95%CI: 1.53–5.87), hyperlipidemia (OR: 2.29; 95%CI: 1.42–3.7), lower urinary tract symptoms (OR: 2.2; 95%CI: 1.76–2.76), hypertension (OR: 2.05; 95%CI: 1.61–2.6), psychological stress (OR: 1.68; 95%CI: 1.43–1.98) and low physical activity (OR: 1.35; 95%CI: 1.15–1.6) (all, p < 0.05). Conclusion: Overall, 32.2% of men in our study had ED according to the IIEF-5. Apart from age, most important risk factors for ED were diabetes, hyperlipidemia, lower urinary tract symptoms, hypertension and psychological stress.