Erectile Dysfunction in Patients with Primary Open-angle Glaucoma in Malaysia.

Area of Science:

• Ophthalmology
• Urology
• Geriatrics

Background:

• Erectile dysfunction (ED) and primary open-angle glaucoma (POAG) are prevalent conditions, particularly in the elderly population.
• Understanding the relationship between ED and POAG is crucial for managing patient health and quality of life.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess the incidence of erectile dysfunction (ED) in Malaysian patients with primary open-angle glaucoma (POAG).
• To investigate the correlation between the severity of POAG and the presence and severity of ED.

Main Methods:

• A cross-sectional study involving 220 Malaysian participants aged 40-80 years was conducted.
• Validated International Index of Erectile Function-5 (IIEF-5) and Advanced Glaucoma Intervention Study (AGIS) scores were used to assess ED and glaucoma severity, respectively.
• Medical history, ocular parameters, and treatments were reviewed to identify potential confounding factors.

Main Results:

• The prevalence of ED among participants was high, at 91%.
• A significant negative correlation was found between glaucoma severity (AGIS score) and erectile function (IIEF-5 score) (r = -0.262, p = 0.010).
• ED prevalence increased with age and glaucoma severity, independent of comorbidities and topical beta-blocker use.

Conclusions:

• Erectile dysfunction is common in patients with primary open-angle glaucoma and its severity increases with worsening glaucoma.
• Aging significantly influences the association between ED and POAG, suggesting a complex interplay rather than a direct causal link.