Higher Charlson Comorbidity Index is Associated with Increased Risk of Erectile Dysfunction: Evidence from NHANES Data

Abstract

Background The Charlson Comorbidity Index (CCI) is a tool used to assess the presence and severity of various coexisting conditions in an individual, providing a predictive value for mortality. However, the relationship between CCI and Erectile Dysfunction (ED) has not been clearly established. The aim of this study was to investigate the association between CCI and ED, with the goal of offering valuable insights to improve the quality of life.Methods We used data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) to explore the association between CCI and ED. The primary statistical methods employed included weighted multivariate regression analyses, subgroup analyses, restricted cubic spline (RCS) analyses, and propensity score matching (PSM) analyses.Results Out of the 2295 adults that participated in this study, 863 (37.6%) were diagnosed with ED. The results of weighted multivariate regression analyses demonstrated a positive correlation between the CCI and the incidence of ED. For each additional point on the CCI, the risk of ED increased by 32% (OR 1.32, 95% CI 1.18–1.47). When the CCI was divided into two groups (CCI = 0 and CCI > = 1), the risk of ED significantly increased, particularly for those with CCI > = 1, indicating a 122% higher risk of ED compared to those with CCI = 0 (OR 2.22, 95% CI 1.62–3.05). Sensitivity analyses such as subgroup analyses and PSM confirmed the robust positive correlation between CCI and ED.Conclusion Our study suggests that a higher CCI is positively correlated with an increased risk of ED, and decreasing CCI can help reduce the risk of ED.