Prevalence of, and risk factors for erectile dysfunction in male type 2 diabetic outpatient attendees in Enugu, South East Nigeria.

Context: Erectile dysfunction (ED) is a strong predictor of poor quality of life in men with type 2 Diabetes mellitus (T2DM). Several studies evaluating ED in men with diabetes mellitus have been carried out, but few of these have been done in Nigeria. In Enugu, South East Nigeria, paucity of studies on this subject was observed.

Aims: This study aims to determine the prevalence and predictors of ED in men with T2DM attending the diabetes clinics.

Settings And Design: A descriptive cross-sectional study of men with T2DM in UNTH and Saint Mary's Hospital, Enugu, was carried out. The systematic sampling method was used to recruit participants.

Subjects And Methods: Data collection from participants and their hospital records was done using semi-structured questionnaire. ED was assessed using the 5 items, international index of erectile function questionnaire.

Statistical Analysis Used: Data analysis was done using SPSS version 20 and results presented as texts and tables. P value was set at <0.05.

Results: A total of 325 participants with mean age of 57.8 ± 13.2 years were involved out of which 94.7% had ED. The proportion of participants with ED had increased with its severity. Predictors of ED included poor glycemic control, longer duration of diabetes, overweight/obesity, and older age. Poor ED health-seeking behavior and treatment were noted.

Conclusions: The prevalence of ED is high. Lifestyle interventions targeted at improving glycemic control and weight loss may reduce the burden of this complication. We recommend objective ED screening using standard but brief instruments as part of routine evaluation of men with T2DM.