Social environmental impact of COVID-19 and erectile dysfunction: an explorative review.

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Pizzol D., Shin J. I., Trott M., Ilie P., Ippoliti S., Carrie A. M., ...More

Journal of endocrinological investigation, vol.45, no.3, pp.483-487, 2022 (SCI-Expanded) identifier identifier identifier

  • Publication Type: Article / Article
  • Volume: 45 Issue: 3
  • Publication Date: 2022
  • Doi Number: 10.1007/s40618-021-01679-1
  • Journal Name: Journal of endocrinological investigation
  • Journal Indexes: Science Citation Index Expanded (SCI-EXPANDED), Scopus, BIOSIS, EMBASE, MEDLINE
  • Page Numbers: pp.483-487
  • Keywords: Erectile dysfunction, Sexual health, COVID-19, Prevalence, HEALTH, METAANALYSIS, BIAS, CARE
  • Bezmialem Vakıf University Affiliated: Yes

Abstract

Background To date, no attempt has been made to collate literature on the relationship between the social environmental impact of COVID-19 and erectile dysfunction. The aim of this explorative review was to assess and compare the prevalence of erectile dysfunction (ED) in male healthcare workers and males during the COVID-19 pandemic. Methods A systematic review of major databases from inception to February 2021 was conducted. Prevalence data were extracted, and a random-effects meta-analysis was undertaken. Outcomes The pooled prevalence of ED amongst healthcare workers working in COVID-19 specific environments, and non-healthcare during the COVID-19 pandemic. Results Of 52 initial studies, six were included for the final analysis. The pooled prevalence of ED in healthcare workers working in a COVID-19 environment was 63.6% (95% CI 20.3-92.3%), and in non-healthcare workers during the COVID-19 pandemic was 31.9% (95% CI 19.5-47.6%). Conclusion The prevalence of ED in healthcare workers working in COVID-19 environments was higher than representative samples and is of concern. Sexual health (and by extension, overall health), should be a priority when considering ways to care for this population. Considering the social environmental impact of COVID-19 on sexual health and in particular on ED, it is important to provide adequate psychological support systems and to promote quality of life with particular attention to sexual health.