[Chronic pelvic pain and its comorbidity].

Area of Science:

• Urology
• Andrology
• Pain Medicine

Background:

• Chronic prostatitis lacks a clear etiology, leading to the diagnosis of chronic pelvic pain syndrome (CPPS).
• CPPS is associated with various somatic and psychological complaints, impacting men's health.
• Understanding CPPS prevalence and comorbidities is crucial for effective treatment strategies.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the prevalence of pelvic pain syndrome in the community.
• To explore the association of pelvic pain with sexual dysfunction, somatic complaints, and aging in men.
• To highlight the significance of CPPS as a health concern in adult men.

Main Methods:

• A representative survey of 770 men was conducted.
• The Giessen Prostatitis Symptom Score, a validated instrument, was used to assess pelvic pain syndrome.
• Data on sexual dysfunction, somatic complaints, and demographic information were collected.

Main Results:

• 7.8% of surveyed men (60 out of 770) met the criteria for pelvic pain syndrome.
• Men with pelvic pain syndrome reported significantly higher rates of sexual dysfunction, including erectile dysfunction and loss of libido.
• The majority of men with pelvic pain also experienced additional pain symptoms (e.g., back and joint pain) and fatigue.
• Unlike asymptomatic men, symptomatic men did not show age-associated sexual or somatic complaints.

Conclusions:

• Chronic pelvic pain syndrome is a prevalent health issue affecting a notable percentage of men, particularly in middle and late adulthood.
• The high comorbidity with sexual dysfunction and other pain symptoms underscores the complex nature of CPPS.
• Further research and interdisciplinary approaches are necessary for improved diagnosis and treatment of this condition.