Obesity significantly increases the risk of erectile dysfunction: a meta-analysis based on observational studies
10.16139/j.1007-9610.2025.06.07
- VernacularTitle:肥胖显著增加勃起功能障碍风险：一项基于观察性研究的荟萃分析
- Author:
Lang JI
;
Shaolong HAO
;
Haitao SUN
;
Wuqing SUN
;
Jihong Ma
;
Rixing BAI
;
Wei HAN
- Publication Type:Journal Article
- From:
Journal of Surgery Concepts & Practice
2025;30(6):494-502
- CountryChina
- Language:Chinese
-
Abstract:
Objective To quantify the association between obesity and erectile dysfunction (ED) risk through a meta-analysis. Methods Following PRISMA guidelines, systematic searches of Chinese and English databases (up to March 2025) were conducted to include observational studies (cohort, cross-sectional, case-control). Adjusted effect sizes (OR and 95% CI) were extracted. Study quality was assessed using the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality(AHRQ) scale, and a random-effects model was applied to pool effect sizes. Subgroup analyses (geographic region, obesity definitions) and sensitivity analyses were performed to validate robustness. Results Ten studies (n=230 744), including nine cross-sectional studies, were included. The meta-analysis revealed that obesity significantly increased ED risk (random-effects OR=1.80, 95% CI: 1.29-2.51), with high heterogeneity (I2=99.9%). Subgroup analyses indicated stronger associations in USA populations (OR=2.10, 95% CI: 1.23-3.60) than in Chinese populations (OR=1.16, 95% CI: 1.05-1.28). The highest effect size was observed when using BMI≥25 kg/m3 as the obesity threshold (OR=3.05, 95% CI: 2.06-4.51). Sensitivity analyses confirmed robust results (OR: 1.60-1.94 after excluding any single study). Conclusions Obesity is a critical risk factor for ED, with effect strength influenced by geographic region and obesity definitions. Interventions targeting BMI≥30 kg/m2 in Western populations and metabolic risks at BMI≥25 kg/m3 in Asian populations are recommended.
