Erectile Dysfunction in COPD: A Consequence or a Sign?

BACKGROUND

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a disease that can be associated with other diseases and has systemic effects. The effects of the disease may lead to disruptions in the working mechanisms of other systems. In our study, we aimed to investigate the effects of COPD on sexual function and related psychological status in men.

MATERIALS AND

METHODS

The study included 60 male patients diagnosed with COPD in our hospital between March 2023 and May 2024. A control group consisting of 60 healthy individuals was also formed. Spirometry was performed in all patients. Assessment was performed using the COPD Assessment Test and the modified Medical Research Council scale, and three groups-Global Initiative for Chronic Obstructive Lung Disease (GOLD) A, GOLD B and GOLD E-were formed by combining the spirometric grading of COPD patients according to symptom level and exacerbation history. These three groups were evaluated by using the Beck Depression Inventory and International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF) tests, and the results were recorded. Blood samples were tested to measure asymmetric dimethylarginine levels. The results were statistically compared.

RESULTS

The mean values of forced expiratory volume in the first second of forced expiration (FEV1) %, forced vital capacity (FVC) % and FEV1/FVC % of the control group were statistically significantly higher than those of the patient group (p < 0.001). The Beck Depression scale score, moderate and severe depression rates were higher than those of the control group (p = 0.004). The IIEF and ejaculatory function scores were statistically significantly lower than those of the control group (p < 0.001 and p = 0.001, respectively).

CONCLUSIONS

COPD is a disease that affects other systems aside from the respiratory system. The presence of COPD can have negative effects on sexual function.