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A new tool for predicting erectile dysfunction
D Day1, A Ambegaonkar, K Harriot
1Pfizer Inc., 235 East 42nd Street, New York, NY 10017, USA.
Advances in Therapy
|September 27, 2001
Summary
Physicians can now easily identify men at risk for erectile difficulty (ED) using a new computer-based Sexual Health Inventory for Men (SHIM) score indicator. This tool aids in early assessment and intervention for sexual health concerns.
Area of Science:
- Urology
- Men's Health
- Medical Informatics
Background:
- The Sexual Health Inventory for Men (SHIM) is effective for assessing erectile difficulty (ED).
- Physician reluctance to use SHIM stems from its intimate nature.
- A need exists for a discreet and efficient ED screening tool in clinical settings.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop and validate a user-friendly, computer-based SHIM score indicator for office use.
- To facilitate early identification of men at high risk for ED.
- To overcome barriers associated with traditional SHIM administration.
Main Methods:
- Over 30,000 SHIM questionnaires were administered to men in physicians' offices.
- Data included SHIM scores and patient demographics (age, smoking, diabetes, depression, hypertension, prostate disease, cholesterol).
- A logistic regression model was developed to predict ED likelihood based on SHIM scores and clinical factors.
Main Results:
- A logistic regression model achieved 81.8% sensitivity and 57.7% specificity in predicting ED (SHIM score < 21).
- The model was integrated into a graphic, Windows-based computer program.
- The SHIM score indicator provides rapid risk assessment for ED.
Conclusions:
- The computer-based SHIM score indicator is a convenient tool for physicians.
- It effectively identifies patients requiring further ED assessment.
- This technology can improve the integration of sexual health screening into routine practice.