Prevalence and Factors Associated with Premature Ejaculation in Japan: First Nationwide Cross-Sectional Survey by the Japanese Society for Sexual Medicine.

Abstract

Purpose: Premature ejaculation (PE) is a most common sexual complaint among men worldwide, but its prevalence and associated factors in Japan remain underexplored. This study aimed to determine the prevalence of self-reported PE, lifelong PE (LPE), and acquired PE (APE) among Japanese men, as well as to identify associated factors, distress levels, and healthcare-seeking behaviors through a nationwide cross-sectional survey.

Materials and methods: This internet-based nationwide cross-sectional survey was conducted among Japanese men from 20 to 79 years old by the Clinical Research Promotion Committee of the Japanese Society for Sexual Medicine (JSSM). Data were collected using validated questionnaires, including the International Society for Sexual Medicine (ISSM) criteria for LPE and APE.

Results: Of 37,485 invited participants, 6,228 provided valid responses (response rate: 16.61%), with 5,331 sexually active men included in the analysis. The prevalence of self-reported PE distress was 23.39%. ISSM-defined LPE and APE were observed in 0.54% and 3.47% of respondents, respectively. Univariate analysis identified erectile dysfunction (ED), psychotropic drug use, neurological diseases, trauma, aortic aneurysm surgery, and partnership dissatisfaction as significant associated factors for both LPE and APE. Multivariate analysis confirmed ED as the common associated factor. Despite 51.00% of respondents expressing a desire for treatment, only 4.81% had sought medical help.

Conclusions: This study provides the first epidemiological insights into PE in Japan, revealing a notable prevalence and identifying ED as a key associated factor. Despite significant distress, most affected individuals do not seek medical help, highlighting the necessity for greater public awareness and better access to treatment options. Future research should focus on longitudinal assessments to explore causal relationships and evaluate potential interventions.