The High Risk of Obstructive Sleep Apnea—An Independent Risk Factor of Erectile Dysfunction in ST-Segment Elevation Myocardial Infarction Patients

INTRODUCTION: Sleep-related breathing disorders are highly prevalent in patients with established cardiovascular disease. Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is associated with several cardiovascular conditions such as hypertension, ischemic heart disease, arrhythmias, and erectile dysfunction (ED). AIM: The aim of this prospective study was to investigate the prevalence of ED in ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) patients at high risk of OSA, and to evaluate the leading factors that increase the risk of ED. METHODS: We prospectively studied 90 consecutive male STEMI patients. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: A risk of OSA was assessed using the Berlin questionnaire (BQ) and Epworth Sleepiness Scale (ESS). Erectile function was assessed using the International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF). RESULTS: Thirty-two (35.6%) patients were at high risk of OSA. Patients were at high risk of OSA who on admission had significantly higher mean ESS score, and abnormal BQ, higher incidence of hypertension, and higher body mass index. They were also found to have significantly higher mean C-reactive protein level and higher incidence of ED. The mean IIEF score was significantly lower in patients at high risk of OSA (16.2 ± 5.4 vs. 20.5 ± 6.4; P = 0.004). In the multiple logistic regression analysis, high risk of OSA was strong and an independent risk factor of ED in STEMI patients (odds ratio 55.71, 95% confidence interval 3.36-923.81; P = 0.005). Conclusion. ED was highly prevalent in STEMI patients at high risk of OSA. High risk of OSA was strong, independent risk factor for developing ED.