Erectile Dysfunction Among Hypertensive Patients in Eastern Sudan: A Cross‐Sectional Assessment of Prevalence and Associated Factors

Background Hypertension poses a significant global health threat and is associated with several complications, including erectile dysfunction (ED). Currently, there is no published data on the prevalence of ED among hypertensive patients in Sudan. Thus, this study evaluated the prevalence of ED and the associated factors among hypertensive patients in eastern Sudan. Methods This cross‐sectional study was carried out in Gadarif, Eastern Sudan. Data on demographic characteristics, anthropometrics, blood pressure, results of the International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF‐5) questionnaire, and clinical history was obtained. Multivariate binary regression analysis was used. Results Three hundred and twelve men with hypertension were recruited. The median (interquartile range [IQR]) age and duration of hypertension were 52.2 (46.0–59.0) years and 5.0 (3.0–7.0) years, respectively. Of the participants, 107 (34.3%) had ED. Of those with ED, 107 men were identified, with 15 (14.0%) experiencing severe ED, 10 (9.3%) experiencing moderate ED, 39 (36.4%) experiencing mild to moderate ED, and 43 (40.2%) experiencing mild ED. Multivariate binary regression revealed that increasing age (adjusted odds ratio [AOR] = 1.13 and 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.07–1.19), increasing duration of hypertension (AOR = 1.24 and 95% CI 1.09–1.40), number of medications (AOR = 2.40 and 95% CI = 1.27–4.55), and being of low income (AOR = 2.26 and 95% CI = 1.10–4.67) were associated with ED. Education level, occupation, presence of comorbidity, tobacco use, or alcohol use were not associated with ED. Conclusion This study reveals a significant prevalence of ED (34.3%) among men with hypertension in Eastern Sudan, with age, duration of hypertension, number of medications, and low income as key associated factors. This present study emphasizes the importance of integrated screening and management strategies to address both hypertension and ED simultaneously.