Evaluation of Erectile Dysfunction and Associated Factors in Type-II Diabetic Patients in Birjand, Iran in 2008-2009

Background: Erectile dysfunction (ED) is one of the important complications in diabetic patients. Various factors trigger the onset and intensity of erectile dys-function. This study was done to determine the prevalence of erectile dysfunction and some associated factors among type II-diabetic patients in Birjand, Iran. Methods: In this cross-sectional study, which was carried out in Birjand during 2008 and 2009, 171 male diabetic patients aged 29 to 76 years who were sex-ually active and had no history of prostate surgery were included. Data on demographic characteristic and history of diabetes was collected using a questionnaire. International Index of Erectile Dysfunction-5 and Beckʹs standard questionnaire were used to determine erectile dysfunction and depression, respectively. Data were analyzed using multiple statistical tests including chi square, t-test, and logistic regression. Results: The mean age of study population was 52.78 [95% CI: 51.25, 54.32] years (range between 29 to 76 years) and 43.3% of individuals were under 50 years. ED was diagnosed in 140 out of 171 (81.9%) diabetic patients. ED was mild in 28 (20%) subjects, moderate in 66 (47.1%), and sever in 46 (32.9%). Suffering from Long-term of diabetes (P < 0.001), progressive depression (P < 0.001), increased level of HbA1c (P < 0.001), and decreased level of HDL (P < 0.001) were among the most related factors with ED. Conclusion: The prevalence of ED is high among diabetic patients. Control of the disease and its relevant risk factors might be helpful in decreasing sexual dysfunction in diabetic patients.