The study was done to investigate prevalence of SD and its variables, including gender differences, in a sample of PD patients.
This multicenter observational study included 203 patients out of which 113 males and 90 were the females that were affected by PD. Patients were evaluated using a 40 item semi-structured interview and specific standardized scales to investigate SD, motor impairment, daily life activities, and CBI.
Sexual dysfunction was observed in about 68% of men, and in around 53% of women, loss of libido being the main sexual concern in both sexes. Men were significantly more affected by SD than women, but no difference in the severity of the dysfunction emerged between genders. 85% of PD patients had a stable couple relationship. 40% were satisfied with such a relationship. 57% of the patients stated that the disease affected their sexual life, especially due to reduced sexual desire, and the frequency of sexual intercourses. Moreover, significant differences between subjects with SD and subjects without SD were found in UPDRS, in Hamilton Depression Rating Scale and CBI scores.
The study concluded that the SD is highly prevalent in patients affected by PD, that is negatively affecting their quality of life.
Reference: https://www.jsm.jsexmed.org/article/S1743-6095(20)30713-X/fulltext
