Evaluation of sexual dysfunction and its predictive factors in female and male patients with rheumatoid arthritis

Background Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a common disabling joint disease affecting both males and females. Sexual dysfunction (SD) is a common association with RA. The aim of this work was to study the prevalence and predictors of sexual dysfunction in male and female patients with rheumatoid arthritis. Results The mean age of female patients was 32.1 years and 39.7 years for males. The prevalence of sexual dysfunction was higher in RA female patients than controls, 62.1% versus 41.2% respectively (P <= 0.05). The prevalence of global sexual dysfunction was higher in RA male patients than controls, 63.8% versus 47.5% respectively (P <= 0.05). Predictors of sexual dysfunction in female RA patients were the number of children, BMI, disease duration, DAS score, HADs-D score, HAQ score, VAS score, joint deformity, and the number of drugs. Predictors of sexual dysfunction in male RA patients were age, disease duration, DAS score, HAQ score, VAS score, and the number of drugs. Conclusion SD is prevalent in RA patients. Disease activity, pain, depression, and disturbed quality of life affect nearly all domains of sexual functions in female and male patients.