Prevalence of erectile dysfunction in Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) and its predictors among diabetic men

Background: Diabetes mellitus (DM) is one of the common causes of morbidity and mortality globally. It has also been associated with erectile dysfunction (ED) adding to poor quality of life. The present study aimed to determine the prevalence of ED and its predictors among diabetic men. Material and Methods: A hospital-based cross-sectional observational study was conducted at a tertiary care centre including 357 diabetic men recruited over one and half years. ED was identified using International Index of Erectile Function score and independent predictors were identified using multiple logistic regression analysis. Results: ED was found in 212 (59.38%) diabetic males. A strong negative correlation was found between potency score and age (r = -0.647), and a moderate negative correlation with duration of DM (r= -0.324), systolic blood pressure (SBP), and diastolic blood pressure. BMI. fasting blood sugar, serum cholesterol, and serum creatinine showed a weak negative correlation with potency score. Serum testosterone level showed a strong positive correlation with potency score. Age, SBP, duration of diabetes, fasting blood sugar, and serum-free testosterone (P < 0.05) were independent predictors of ED. Conclusion: Prevalence of ED is high in diabetic males. Better blood sugar control and blood pressure control could reduce sexual dysfunction in diabetic men and improve quality of life.