Remitted male schizophrenia patients with sexual dysfunction

Area of Science:

• Psychiatry
• Sexual Medicine
• Clinical Psychology

Background:

• Sexual dysfunction is common in male schizophrenia patients, yet under-researched.
• This study addresses the knowledge gap by investigating prevalence and associated factors.

Purpose of the Study:

• To determine the prevalence of sexual dysfunction in male schizophrenia patients in remission.
• To explore associations between sexual dysfunction and sociodemographic factors, illness characteristics, and anthropometrics.

Main Methods:

• A cross-sectional study involving 111 remitted male schizophrenia patients.
• Utilized the Malay version of the International Index of Erectile Function (Mal-IIEF-15) to assess five domains of sexual function.
• Logistic regression analysis was performed to identify associated factors.

Main Results:

• High prevalence of sexual dysfunction across all five domains (78.4%–97.1%).
• Intercourse satisfaction was the most affected domain, while orgasmic dysfunction was least impaired.
• Orgasmic dysfunction was associated with Malay ethnicity (higher risk), higher education (higher risk), and higher PANSS-positive scores (protective).

Conclusions:

• Sexual dysfunction is highly prevalent in male schizophrenia patients.
• Malay ethnicity and higher education are risk factors for orgasmic dysfunction, while higher positive symptom scores are protective.
• Routine assessment of sexual health in schizophrenia patients is recommended.