Can Cardiometabolic Index Predict Erectile and Other Sexual Functions in Men with Metabolic Syndrome

Abstract

Background: We aimed to examine the impact of the cardiometabolic index (CMI) on various aspects of male sexuality across different age groups, with a focus on the presence of metabolic syndrome (MetS). Methods: We included a total of 454 sexually active men, 127 with MetS and 327 without MetS. We assessed sexual function using the long form of the International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF) questionnaire. According to the IIEF guestionnaire, a total score <26 is defined as erectile dysfunction (ED). We calculated the CMI using the formula: (Triglyceride/High Density Lipoprotein-cholesterol) x (Waist circumference/Height). The relationship between sexual function scores and CMI was analyzed in men, using a 50-year age cutoff. We investigated the predictive power of the CMI for ED. Results: The mean CMI was higher in men with MetS than those without (p-value < 0.001). The MetS group had lower mean testosterone levels and erectile function scores than the non-MetS group (p-value < 0.05). Men under 50 with MetS had lower sexual function scores for erectile function, sexual satisfaction, orgasm, desire and overall satisfaction than their non-MetS counterparts (p-value < 0.05). Regardless of MetS grouping, at a CMI cut-off value of 0.50, sensitivity and specificity were 77% and 55%, respectively (p-value < 0.001). However, MetS group had low sensitivity and specificity at a CMI cut-off value of 1.46 (56% and 57%, respectively; p-value > 0.05). Logistic regression revealed that both CMI and age were significant risk factors for sexual dysfunction (Odds Ratio = 2.672 and 1.081, respectively; p-value = 0.001). Conclusions: The CMI predicted sexual dysfunction, including ED, in younger men. The presence of MetS increased the risk of sexual dysfunction. However, CMI did not predict male sexual dysfunction in older men, independent of MetS. Our findings suggest that CMI can be a predictor of various aspects of sexual functions, particularly in younger men.