Objective: This study assessed the possible associations between lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) and erectile dysfunction (ED) in aging Taiwanese males and investigated the impact of various aspects of LUTS on ED.
Methods: A free health screening for aging males (> or =40 years old) was conducted in Kaohsiung Medical University Hospital. All the subjects had completed clinical data and answered questionnaires. ED and LUTS were assessed by validated symptom scales: the International Index of Erectile Function-5 (IIEF-5) and the International Prostate Symptom Score (IPSS).
Results: A total of 339 eligible patients enrolled in this study with a mean age of 60.1 years old. In multiple logistic regression analysis, age and IPSS (p < 0.001 and p = 0.013, respectively) were significantly associated with ED after controlling other comorbidities. In a further age-adjusted multiple regression analysis, our results showed that irritative symptoms (p = 0.042) have a more significant association with ED than the obstructive symptoms (p = 0.101).
Conclusions: Our results indicate that age and LUTS are the two most independent risk factors for ED. Aging Taiwanese males with LUTS are at increasing risk for ED, especially for those with significant irritative symptoms.