Prevalence and determinants of erectile dysfunction among male type 2 diabetes mellitus patients with chronic kidney disease: a cross-sectional study.

BACKGROUND

Erectile dysfunction (ED) is a common complication among patients with diabetes mellitus (DM) and chronic kidney disease (CKD). However, limited research has focused on the association between ED and CKD and, highlights a gap in addressing this issue. This study aimed to determine the prevalence of ED and identify the associated factors in patients with DM and CKD.

METHODS

This cross-sectional study recruited 280 male patients, aged 18 years old and above, who had DM and CKD. Those with underlying psychiatry disorders, inability to understand Bahasa Malaysia, and on renal replacement therapy were excluded. The questionnaire contained demographic and clinical information and the Malay Version of the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS). Their sexual function was evaluated using the Malay Version of International Index of Erectile Function-5 (IIEF-5). The data was analyzed with simple and multiple logistic regressions.

RESULTS

The prevalence of ED among DM patients with CKD was 95.0% (n=228). Metformin usage [adjusted odds ratio (adj. OR) =6.64; 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.54, 28.53; P=0.01], elevated urea levels (adj. OR =1.57; 95% CI: 1.10, 2.23; P=0.01), increased glycosylated hemoglobin (HbA1c) (adj. OR =1.75; 95% CI: 1.09, 2.82; P=0.02) and high educational attainment (adj. OR =0.21; 95% CI: 0.05, 0.88; P=0.03) were associated with ED among DM patients with CKD.

CONCLUSIONS

The prevalence of ED among patients with DM and CKD is high. Thus, clinicians should explore this matter during consultation to ensure early detection and appropriate management can be carried out.