Development and validation of a minimum data set for a male sexual health assessment registry system

Men’s sexual health is an important aspect of public health that requires focused attention and thorough analysis. A comprehensive evaluation must consider various health issues from multiple perspectives. Clinical registries are vital for tracking male sexual health and follow-up data; however, the absence of a standardized data collection tool hinders the systematic documentation of male sexual health from an information management standpoint. As a result, the data collected often lacks comparability, which limits the generalizability of the findings. This study aims to develop a minimum data set (MDS) as an initial step toward creating a male sexual health registry. This study was conducted from January 8, 2024, to March 20, 2025, using a multi-phased approach. We began by compiling a list of potential data items through a search of scientific databases, a review of grey literature, and an examination of existing information systems, forms, and websites related to male sexual health. Next, we applied a modified Delphi technique, which involved a two-round survey with a panel of 27 experts in clinical practice and research focused on male sexual health. These experts rated the importance of each candidate data item for inclusion in the MDS using afour-point Likert scale. Items that received an agreement level of 80% or higher were accepted for inclusion in the final MDS. Finally, we evaluated the content validity of the developed MDS using the content validity ratio (CVR) and the content validity index (CVI) criteria. The finalized MDS for male sexual health assessment comprises 105 items, organized into six distinct categories, including sociodemographic factors, relationship status, sexual behaviors and functions, awareness of sexual self-examination, sexual protective behaviors, and clinical history. This MDS is developed to assist registry designers and administrators in selecting the necessary data items for a male sexual health assessment registry system. Its purpose is to facilitate the design and implementation of a standardized registry and support the systematic collection of high-quality data. The MDS may also provide a useful foundation for improving the availability and consistency of information relevant to male sexual health care. However, further research is needed to evaluate its implementation, feasibility, and potential impact on clinical decision-making and quality of care.