# Prevalence and Determinants of Sexual Dysfunction in Male Diabetic Patients in Saudi Arabia: A Cross-Sectional Study

## TL;DR

This study found that most male diabetic patients in Saudi Arabia experience sexual dysfunction, with age, smoking, and diabetes duration being key risk factors.

## Contribution

The study provides new insights into the prevalence and determinants of sexual dysfunction among diabetic men in Saudi Arabia.

## Key findings

- 85% of participants had erectile dysfunction and 47% had premature ejaculation.
- Age, smoking, and diabetes duration were significant risk factors for both conditions.
- High triglycerides and abnormal cholesterol levels increased the risk of sexual dysfunction.

## Abstract

Introduction

In Saudi Arabia, sexual health among diabetic men is one aspect that is less explored, unlike other complications related to diabetes. This study aimed to look at the prevalence of erectile dysfunction (ED) and premature ejaculation (PE) in male Saudi patients with diabetes and their risk factors.

Methods

A cross-sectional study targeting 100 male diabetic patients was carried out at Dr. Soliman Fakeeh Hospital in Jeddah, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. Participants provided demographic and medical history information and underwent laboratory investigations, including glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c), lipid profiles, and markers of renal function. We evaluated sexual dysfunction using the International Index of Erectile Function and the Premature Ejaculation Diagnostic Tool.

Results

Eighty-five percent of participants had ED and 47% had PE. Erectile dysfunction (ED) was significantly associated with age (OR 1.51, p < 0.0), marital status (OR 1.48, p < 0.05), smoking (OR 2.90, p < 0.05), and diabetes duration (OR 2.90, p < 0.05). For PE, the factors marital status, smoking, and diabetes duration were found to be significant with ORs of 0.63, 1.81, and 1.31, respectively (p < 0.05). The diabetes patients with higher levels of triglycerides, hypercholesterolaemia, and abnormal levels of HDL and LDL had a higher risk for both conditions.

Conclusion

The increased incidences of ED and PE emphasise the importance of a proper diagnostic approach. An important step would be to implement strategies to quit smoking, control blood sugar levels, manage lifestyle habits, and regulate lipids. Screening for sexual dysfunctions and assessing lipid profiles should be part of diabetes management in order to enhance the patient's life.