Erectile dysfunction among the young male population: A cross-sectional study

ObjectiveThis study aimed to assess the prevalence and associated factors of male sexual dysfunction in a population of young men using validated tools to evaluate erectile function and its contributing factors.MethodsA community-based cross-sectional study was conducted between April 2023 and August 2024 among married men aged ≤40 years in Saudi Arabia. Participants were randomly selected from public gatherings across five regions and interviewed using the International Index of Erectile Function and Sexual Health Inventory for Men. Sociodemographic and clinical data were collected, including comorbidities, body mass index, physical activity, income, educational level, job, and depression screening result. Statistical analyses included descriptive statistics, nonparametric tests, and multivariable linear regression to identify factors associated with erectile dysfunction.ResultsA total of 196 men participated in the study. Of these, 77 (39.2%) were diagnosed with erectile dysfunction. According to the Sexual Health Inventory for Men score categories, 119 (60.7%) men had no significant erectile dysfunction, 29 (14.8%) had mild erectile dysfunction, 19 (9.7%) had mild-to-moderate erectile dysfunction, 15 (7.6%) had moderate erectile dysfunction, and 14 (7.14%) had severe erectile dysfunction. Multivariable linear regression analysis revealed several significant associated factors for better erectile function (based on the International Index of Erectile Function score), namely, higher income and an initial negative screening result for depression. The International Index of Erectile Function score was 12.65 points (95% confidence interval: -17.37 to -7.92; p < 0.0001) lower in participants with an initial positive screening result for depression than in those with an initial negative screening result for depression.ConclusionsThese results suggest that sexual dysfunction in younger men is not only influenced by physical health but also closely linked to psychosocial factors such as low income and depression. Further longitudinal research and multidisciplinary approaches are required to develop comprehensive targeted interventions for sexual dysfunction in young men, with an emphasis on mental health and socioeconomic conditions.