Association between nonalcoholic fatty liver disease and erectile dysfunction among American Adults from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey: A cross-sectional study

Abstract

Abstract Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is a pressing public health concern. NAFLD is recognized as a disease with systemic involvement. Erectile dysfunction is a prevalent condition among men.The study examined the relationship between nonalcoholic fatty liver disease, assessed via US Fatty Liver Index (USFLI), and erectile dysfunction.This study used cross-sectional data from individuals over 20 years old who took part in the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey between 2001 and 2004, collecting details on their ED, USFLI, and several other essential variables. A USFLI score equal to or exceeding 30 was chosen to diagnose NAFLD, while a USFLI score below 10 was utilized to exclude the presence of fatty liver.There were 3 763 participants, with 29.1% (1,095/3,763) who experienced ED. After Accounting for all potential covariates, USFLI was positively associated with erectile dysfunction (OR, 1.02; 95% CI, 1.02 ~ 1.03; P < 0.001). Compared with individuals with Q1 (USFLI < 10), the adjusted OR values for USFLI and ED in Q2 (10 ≤ USFLI < 30) and Q3 (USFLI ≥ 30, NAFLD) were 1.84 (95% CI: 1.46 ~ 2.32, p < 0.001) and 2.18 (95% CI: 1.66 ~ 2.87, p < 0.001), respectively. The association USFLI and ED exhibited an L-shaped curve (nonlinear, P = 0.014). The OR of developing erectile dysfunction was 1.03 (95% CI: 1.021 ~ 1.04, P < 0.001) in participants with USFLI < 50.18. This study identified a positive correlation between USFLI and ED within the adult American population. Our findings imply that NAFLD might constitute an independent risk factor for ED.