Prevalence and associated factors of erectile dysfunction among men attending the urology clinic at Mulago Hospital: a cross-sectional study

Abstract

Background: Erectile dysfunction (ED) is a significant public health concern affecting men’s quality of life and relationships. Despite its global burden, epidemiological data on ED in Uganda, particularly among men seeking care at specialized clinics, remains limited. This study was aimed at determining the prevalence and associated factors of ED among men attending the urology clinic at Mulago National Referral Hospital (Mulago Hospital). General objective: To determine the prevalence and factors associated with erectile dysfunction among men attending the urology clinic of Mulago Hospital Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted over three months, enrolling 384 men aged 35–60 years at the urology clinic. Data on sociodemographic characteristics, clinical history, and lifestyle factors were collected using a structured questionnaire. The Sexual Health Inventory for Men (SHIM) was used to assess ED severity. Logistic regression analysis was performed to identify factors associated with ED. Results: The prevalence of ED was 65.3% (95% CI: 60.3–69.9). Multivariate analysis showed showed significant associations between ED and age (AOR 1.023; P-value 0.05, 95% CI: 1.000–1.054), chronic alcohol use (AOR 2.690; Pvalue 0.00, 95% CI: 1.565–4.625), urethral strictures (AOR 3.874; Pvalue 0.01, 95% CI: 1.44–10.392), and lower urinary tract symptoms (AOR 2.094; Pvalue 0.01, 95% CI: 1.250–3.505). Conclusion: ED is highly prevalent among men attending urology clinic of mulago hospital. These findings highlight the need for routine ED screening, early intervention, and public health strategies to address modifiable risk factors. Keywords: Erectile dysfunction, Prevalence, associated factors