Erectile Dysfunction in Multiple Sclerosis: A Prevalence Meta-Analysis and Systematic Review

Area of Science:

• Neurology
• Urology
• Public Health

Background:

• The relationship between multiple sclerosis (MS) and erectile dysfunction (ED) remains a subject of debate.
• Understanding this association is crucial for patient care and management.

Purpose of the Study:

• To determine the pooled prevalence of ED in men diagnosed with MS.
• To investigate whether MS is a significant risk factor for developing ED.

Main Methods:

• A systematic review and meta-analysis of English-language studies published up to February 2022.
• Searched databases included PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and the Cochrane Library.
• Quality assessment of included studies and meta-analysis of prevalence and risk factors.

Main Results:

• The pooled prevalence of ED among 2,760 men with MS was 49% (95% CI: 42-56%), with significant heterogeneity.
• Multiple sclerosis was strongly associated with an increased risk of ED (RR = 3.17, 95% CI: 2.31-4.36).
• Higher ED prevalence was observed in subgroups: age >40 (55%), using IIEF tool (63%), and disease duration >10 years (57%).

Conclusions:

• Erectile dysfunction is highly prevalent in men with multiple sclerosis.
• Multiple sclerosis is identified as a significant risk factor for ED development.
• Clinicians should be aware of the increased risk and potential association between MS and ED.