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

This study aims to estimate the prevalence of erectile dysfunction (ED) in the male population of Belgium, and to study its correlation with education, the international prostate symptom scale (IPSS), sexual activity, depression, body mass index, alcohol, smoking, easiness to discuss ED with a doctor, current health index, physical activity, hypertension, diabetes, cardiovascular disease, professional status, residence and whether or not the respondent lives alone.

An age-stratified random sample of the male population aged 40-70 years of Ghent and Charleroi was interviewed in the home by a trained, experienced male nurse, using a structured interview that included the international index of erectile function (IIEF) and the IPSS. ED was classified by the subjects' self-reported confidence to achieve and maintain an erection.

In total, 799 men were interviewed, with a participation rate of 38.0%. The overall age-adjusted prevalence of ED was 10.1% severe, 24.7% moderate, 26.6% mild, and 38.7% reported no ED. Age and the absence of sexual activity over the last 4 weeks were the strongest correlates of ED. Other strong correlates were four or more health complaints, depression, a high score for the IPSS and absence of physical activity.

The prevalence of ED in Belgium is comparable with the results of other population-based studies for severe and moderate ED. Sexual inactivity over the last four weeks is a strong correlate of ED, and should make the clinician think of a possible problem of ED.