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Irish Journal of Medical Science (1971 -)

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Open Access 21-01-2024 | Erectile Dysfunction | Original Article

Prevalence of new onset erectile dysfunction among Damietta governorate men after contracting COVID-19

Authors: Mostafa A. Ahmed, Zakaria M. Obaid, Osama Hashem, Atef W. Elrifai, Mohamed L. Elsaie

Published in: Irish Journal of Medical Science (1971 -) | Issue 3/2024

Abstract

Background

Several reports showed that sexual function was affected during and after the COVID-19 pandemic.

Aims

The objective of the study was to demonstrate whether a realistic association exists between the COVID-19 pandemic and erectile dysfunction (ED) among a sampled Egyptian population in Damietta governorate.

Methods

This cross-sectional study consisted of 330 adult males diagnosed with COVID-19 infection. They were categorized in three age groups (18–29, 30–39, and 40–50 years, respectively). COVID-19-confirmed cases were assessed by the Arabic version of the International Index of Erectile Function questionnaire (IIEF) scores.

Results

The prevalence of ED according to the IIEF was 55.1%. The ED was categorized into mild ED which represents 25.8% of the patients, mild to moderate which represents 22.4% of the patients, moderate which represents 7% of the patients, and severe which represents 0% of the patients. We found a significant negative correlation between the age of the patients and the IIEF score. Also, we found an association between the severity of COVID-19 infection and the IIEF score.

Conclusion

An association of new-onset ED in men who suffered COVID-19 infection was established. This may be due to virus-induced endothelial cell dysfunction; however, an underlying mechanism and causation have not yet been clearly elucidated. While it appears that COVID-19 infection may be a risk factor for ED, additional research is needed to establish causality.

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Title: Prevalence of new onset erectile dysfunction among Damietta governorate men after contracting COVID-19
Authors: Mostafa A. Ahmed
Zakaria M. Obaid
Osama Hashem
Atef W. Elrifai
Mohamed L. Elsaie
Publication date: 21-01-2024
Publisher: Springer International Publishing
Keywords: Erectile Dysfunction
COVID-19
Testosterone
Androgens
Published in: Irish Journal of Medical Science (1971 -) / Issue 3/2024
Print ISSN: 0021-1265
Electronic ISSN: 1863-4362
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s11845-024-03610-y

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