Impact of Obesity, Smoking, and Alcohol on Erectile Dysfunction: A Cross-Sectional Study of Lebanese Men

Erectile dysfunction (ED) is a significant health issue affecting men globally, with established risk factors including age, smoking, obesity, and alcohol consumption. Despite its widespread prevalence, limited data exist on ED and its associated risk factors within the Lebanese population. This study aimed to assess the prevalence and severity of ED among Lebanese men aged 45 and older and examine its relationship with lifestyle factors such as smoking, obesity, and alcohol consumption. A total of 150 participants were recruited during prostate health awareness campaigns, and ED was evaluated using the International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF-5). Data on body mass index (BMI), smoking status, and alcohol consumption were collected through structured questionnaires. Statistical analyses, including chi-square tests and logistic regression, were conducted to explore associations between these factors and ED severity. The findings revealed a high prevalence of ED, with 130 (86.7%) of participants reporting varying degrees of dysfunction. BMI and smoking were significantly associated with increased ED severity (p < 0.01), while age and alcohol consumption were not significant predictors. Logistic regression analysis identified BMI as the strongest predictor of severe ED (OR = 1.21, p = 0.005). These results underscore the critical roles of smoking and obesity in the progression of ED among Lebanese men and highlight the need for public health interventions focused on weight management and smoking cessation. This study provides valuable localized insights into ED risk factors, offering opportunities for preventive strategies tailored to this population.