Prevalence and correlates of erectile dysfunction in Turkey: a population-based study

Abstract

Objectives: Epidemiologic data indicate that erectile dysfunction (ED) is a significant problem among men worldwide. However, data do not exist for Turkish men. This study was conducted to determine the prevalence and sociodemographic, medical, and lifestyle correlates of ED in Turkey.

Methods: Information was gathered via physician-conducted interviews using a validated questionnaire. Respondents self-rated their ED as "none," "minimal," "moderate," or "severe". Bivariate and multivariate analyses were performed on data from a stratified random sample of 1982 men aged > or = 40 years to quantify the associations between ED and potential covariates.

Results: The age-adjusted overall prevalence of ED in Turkey was 69.2% (mild 33.2%, moderate 27.5%, severe 8.5%) and increased with age, as did severity of ED. When we consider moderate + severe ED cases, the prevalence is 36%. In a multivariate model, increased prevalence of moderate or severe ED was significantly associated with age, residence in eastern Turkey; low educational level; unemployment; or underlying diabetes, hypertension, depression, prostate problems or lower urinary tract symptoms. Conversely, residence in southern Turkey, alcohol consumption, physical activity, and higher income were significantly associated with decreased prevalence.

Conclusions: ED affects a high proportion of Turkish men aged > or = 40 years, is correlated with a number of serious medical conditions and the frequency increases with age.