[Effect of aging and diseases on male sexual function assessed by the International Index of Erectile Function]

Many epidemiological factors contribute to erectile dysfunction (ED). The objective of the present research was to investigate the risk factors of ED and the influence of aging on male sexual function, to obtain some insight into prevention of ED.

The study sample consisted of employees, aged from 22 to 59 years old of ten companies in Japan, who responded to the International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF) questionnaire and a survey of health status and related variables. The IIEF sexual activity questionnaire includes 15 items related to male sexual activity organized into five domains (that is erectile function, orgasmic function, sexual desire, intercourse satisfaction, overall satisfaction) to which 967 of the 1,020 subjects (94.8%) provided complete responses. These 967 men constitute the present study sample. For statistical analysis, ANOVA with Scheffe's (post hoc) test was conducted, and statistical significance was set at p < 0.05.

Presence of hypertension, heart disease, diabetes and hyperlipidemia was associated with a significantly decreased score for erectile function in subjects in their fifties (p < 0.05), however, it was not significant in the other age groups. In subjects, who were free from risk factors for sexual function, there was significant correlation between age and the scores for erectile function, orgasmic function, sexual desire and intercourse satisfaction.

Aging and chronic disorders that have been considered to be putative risk factors for ED, therefore affect male sexual function in the elderly. The IIEF was suggested to be suited for use in studies assessing epidemiology of ED.