Occupational cycling is a risk factor for erectile dysfunction in East Africa.

Abstract

Background: The association between bicycle riding and erectile dysfunction is controversial and hypothesised to be caused by pressure from the bicycle seat on the pudendal nerve. Objectives: To evaluate erectile function in East African occupational cyclists (OC) using International Index of Erectile Function questionnaire in comparison to non-cyclists. Design: A cross sectional study. Settings: The environment of Eldoret town in Uasin Gishu county of Kenya. Subjects: Male occupational cyclists aged 18-65 years Results: Total International Index of Erectile Function scores were significantly lower in occupational cyclists versus non-occupational cyclists (19.8±3.4 vs. 21.6±2.2, P< 0.05). Furthermore, Erectile Dysfunction (ED) rates were higher in the cyclist group (76% vs. 31%, p< 0.0001). Logistic regression indicated that the odds of reporting Erectile Dysfunction were 9.1 (95% CI: 5.4-15.5) times higher in cyclists compared to noncyclists controls. Conclusion: In East Africa, occupational cycling is associated with lower International Index of Erectile Function scores and higher rates of Erectile Dysfunction.