Prevalence and risk factors for erectile dysfunction in a population-based study in Iran

To explore the prevalence of and risk factors for erectile dysfunction (ED) in Iran. A total of 2674 men aged 20–70 y old were interviewed by 42 general practitioners and answered a self-administered questionnaire. The subjects were randomly identified from 28 counties of Iran. ED was defined as difficulties in achieving an erection before sexual intercourse and maintaining it. Data on medical history, toxic habits, and current use of medications were also obtained. Of the men interviewed, 18.8% (460) reported ED. Impotence was found to be significantly associated with age and was less associated with geographical location. The prevalence increased with age, from 6% in men 20–39 y to 47% in those >60 y (tested for trend P<0.001). A history of diabetes (odds ratio (OR) 3.72, 95% confidence interval (CI), 2.51–5.71), hypertension (OR 1.69, 95% CI, 1.31–2.40), peripheral vascular disorders (OR 2.44, 95% CI, 1.65–3.74), hypercholesterolemia (OR 1.71, 95% CI, 1.11–2.65), and coronary artery disease (OR 1.61, 95% CI, 1.21–2.85) were significantly associated with ED. In comparison with never smokers, the OR of ED was 2.41 (95% CI, 1.52–3.30) for current smokers and 2.15 (95% CI, 1.38–3.1) for exsmokers and increased with duration of the habit. Drug intake, called tranquilizers and antidepressants, correlated strongly (OR 3.71, 95% CI, 2.51–6.76 and OR 2.80, 95% CI, 1.47–4.32, respectively). This study provides a quantitative estimate of the prevalence and main risk factors for ED in Iranian men.