Prevalence of erectile dysfunction and its correlates: a population-based study in Morocco

Area of Science:

• Urology
• Andrology
• Public Health

Background:

• Erectile dysfunction (ED) is a significant health concern with a notable impact on men's quality of life.
• Understanding the prevalence and associated factors of ED is essential for developing effective public health strategies.

Purpose of the Study:

• To determine the prevalence of erectile dysfunction (ED) in men aged 25 and older in Casablanca, Morocco.
• To identify correlates of ED, including demographic, medical, and psychosocial factors.
• To investigate help-seeking behaviors related to ED.

Main Methods:

• A cross-sectional study involving 655 randomly selected men aged 25 and above in Casablanca.
• Data collection through questionnaires administered by trained sociologist interviewers.
• Inclusion of information on demographics, comorbidities, medication use, sexual activity, and psychological state.

Main Results:

• The prevalence of erectile dysfunction (ED) was found to be 54% in the study population.
• ED prevalence increased significantly with age and was higher among illiterate and employed men.
• Identified risk factors for ED included diabetes, hypertension, heart disease, and smoking.
• Factors negatively impacting erectile function were limited sexual satisfaction, low intercourse frequency, and psychological distress.

Conclusions:

• Erectile dysfunction (ED) is a highly prevalent medical issue in Morocco with a multifactorial etiology.
• Age, education, employment status, and specific health conditions are significant correlates of ED.
• Multidisciplinary management is recommended for addressing the complex nature of ED.