Sexual dysfunction and effect on quality of life in chronic kidney disease: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Abstract
Background: Sexual dysfunction in chronic kidney disease (CKD) is frequently underrecognized and underreported worldwide, despite its well-established association with depression and reduced quality of life (QoL). This study estimated the pooled global prevalence of sexual dysfunction among individuals with CKD and evaluated its impact on psychosocial well-being.
Methods: A systematic review and meta-analysis of published studies examining sexual dysfunction in CKD was conducted following PRISMA 2020 guidelines (PROSPERO: CRD42024508777). Pooled prevalence estimates were calculated using a DerSimonian-Laird random-effects model with Freeman-Tukey double arcsine transformation, and correlation coefficients were pooled following Fisher's Z transformation.
Results: Forty-four eligible studies, involving 10,672 participants from 18 countries, were included. The overall pooled prevalence of sexual dysfunction was 71.2% (95% CI: 65.9-76.3%, I²= 96.8%), with no significant difference across geographical regions (p = 0.87) or between males (71.5%, 95% CI: 65.5-77.3%) and females (67.3%, 95% CI: 52.6-80.5%) (p = 0.61). Prevalence was significantly higher among patients on hemodialysis (77.6%) and those in predialysis stage (76.7%) compared with post-kidney transplant recipients (56.9%), with a significant difference across patient groups (p = 0.01). Sexual dysfunction was significantly correlated with poorer mental (r ≈ 0.36, 95% CI: 0.27-0.45, p < 0.001) and physical (r ≈ 0.39, 95%…
How strong is the evidence?
Evidence Hub reads this as a meta-analysis, done in people. Its evidence level is 1 of 5 (Highest · pooled evidence). Pooled evidence from several studies sits at the top of the evidence pyramid. Reported size: 10,672 participants or records.
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