Prevalence and factors associated with erectile dysfunction among men attending Mulago Hospital’s urology clinic: 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 specialised clinics, remain limited. This study aimed to determine ED prevalence and associated factors among men attending the urology clinic at Mulago National Referral Hospital (Mulago Hospital).

Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted over three months at the urology clinic, enrolling 384 men aged 35–60 years. Data on socio-demographic 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% confidence interval [CI] 60.3 to 69.9). Multivariate analysis showed significant associations between ED and age (adjusted odds ratio (AOR) 1.023, 95% CI 1.000 to 1.054; p = 0.05), chronic alcohol use (AOR 2.690, 95% CI 1.565 to 4.625; p = 0.00), urethral stricture (AOR 3.874, 95% CI 1.44 to 10.392; p = 0.01), and lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) (AOR 2.094, 95% CI 1.250 to 3.505; p = 0.01).

Conclusion: ED is highly prevalent among men attending Mulago Hospital’s urology clinic. These findings highlight the need for routine ED screening, early intervention, and public health strategies to address modifiable risk factors.