Prevalence of erectile dysfunction and its associated factors among patients with diabetes in Ethiopia: a systematic review and meta-analysis

Objectives We aimed to estimate the pooled prevalence of erectile dysfunction (ED) among patients with diabetes mellitus (DM) in Ethiopia and to identify its associated factors. Methods We performed a systematic search of scientific databases (PubMed, ScienceDirect); the grey literature was also searched (Google, Google Scholar). Data were extracted from primary studies using a data extraction format and exported for statistical analysis. I-2 tests were used to assess the heterogeneity of studies. Owing to heterogeneity among the included studies, we used a random-effects model to determine pooled estimates of ED. Publication bias was assessed using Egger's and Begg's tests. Results The pooled prevalence of ED among patients with DM in Ethiopia was 54.3% (95% confidence interval [CI]: 28.2-80.5). Older age (OR: 4.42, 95% CI: 2.83-6.00) and duration of DM (OR: 3.2, 95% CI: 1.74-4.66) had statistically significant associations with ED. Conclusion One in two individuals with DM in Ethiopia also had ED. This finding highlights the need to integrate assessment and management of ED into routine medical care in diabetes follow-up visits. Special attention is recommended for patients with older age and a longer duration of DM.

Automated summary

The study found that in Ethiopia, one in two individuals with diabetes mellitus also had erectile dysfunction (ED), with statistically significant associations with older age and longer duration of diabetes.