Impact of sleep quality and chronotype on self-reported erectile function in young adults presenting with erectile complaints: a prospective observational study.

Abstract

Erectile complaints are prevalent among young adults, with various factors potentially affecting sexual function and quality of life. This study investigates the impact of sleep quality and chronotype on erectile function in young adults who present with self-reported erectile difficulties. In this prospective study, 249 men with ED were included, assessed from January 2023 to July 2024. Sociodemographic and clinical data were collected for all participants, including age, body mass index (BMI), comorbid diseases, and hormonal parameters. All patients completed the following questionnaires: International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF-5), Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI), Morningness-Eveningness Questionnaire (MEQ), Depression Anxiety Stress Scales-42 (DASS-42), and General Health Questionnaire-28 (GHQ-28). Statistical analyses, including Spearman's correlation and Kruskal-Wallis tests, evaluated the relationships between sleep quality, chronotype, and ED. The average age was 31.03 ± 8.06 years. Significant correlations were found: Poor sleep quality was linked to lower erectile function (r = -0.379, p < 0.001), while morning chronotype correlated with better erectile function (r = 0.424, p < 0.001). Regression analysis confirmed these as significant predictors of ED (R² = 0.200, p < 0.001). Sleep quality and chronotype are crucial factors in ED management, suggesting targeted interventions could be beneficial.