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Purpose: Treatment of post-prostatectomy urinary incontinence (UI) and erectile dysfunction (ED) increases quality of life (QoL). Aim of our study was to evaluate the utilisation of care among patients with post-prostatectomy UI and ED in Germany., Methods: The HAROW study documented treatment of patients with localised prostate cancer (≤ T2c) in Germany. 1260 patients underwent radical prostatectomy (RP). Patients answered validated questionnaires after a median follow-up of 6.3 years. Response rate was 76.8%., Results: Median age at RP was 65 (IQR 60-69) years. 14% (134/936) used more than one pad per day for UI. 25% (26/104, 30 missing) of UI patients underwent surgery to improve continence. Of patients without surgery, 41% (31/75) reported a moderate-to-severe issue concerning their incontinence with worse mental health and QoL. 81% (755/936) patients were unable to have an erection firm enough for sexual intercourse. Of all ED patients, 40% (319/793) used ED treatment regularly or tried it at least once. 49% (243/499) of patients with interest in sex never tried ED treatment. In multivariate analysis, patients not using ED treatments were older (≥ 70 years OR 4.1), and more often had preoperative ED (OR 2.3) and less interest in sex (OR 2.2). Nevertheless, 30% (73/240) of these patients had moderate-to-severe issues with their ED reporting worse mental health and QoL., Conclusion: Almost half of the patients without post-prostatectomy UI and ED treatment reported moderate-to-severe issues with a significant decrease in QoL. This indicates an insufficient utilisation of care in Germany., (© 2020. The Author(s).)

Purpose: To explore the effect of undergoing coronary artery bypass grafting on sexual quality of life as an integral part of patients' health-related quality of life., Methods: This cross-sectional study included 265 men ages 18 to 60 years (median age, 55) who underwent coronary artery bypass grafting 1 to 5 years before the study. Standardized questionnaires were implemented to evaluate participant pre- and postoperative sexual quality of life and the quality of counseling provided to patients., Results: Among the patients, 77% were in a steady relationship. The general health score was 5.5 ± 2.8 (mean ± standard deviation) preoperatively and 6 ± 2.2 at follow-up (P = .01). No sexual counseling was given to 83% and 77% of the patients pre- and postoperatively, respectively. The mean sexual satisfaction score dropped from 6.5 ± 2.6 preoperatively to 4.7 ± 3 postoperatively (P < .001). The decline in sexual intercourse frequency and masturbation frequency was significant (P < .001 and P = .006, respectively). Linear regression analysis showed that general health status (P = .008), higher-quality counseling (P = .027), and preoperative sexual quality of life (P < .001) correlated positively with sexual quality of life, whereas sternal pain (P < .001), erectile dysfunction (P < .001), and fear of excessive cardiac burden (P < .001) correlated negatively., Conclusions: Middle-aged men experience decreased sexual quality of life after coronary artery bypass grafting. Preoperative sexual quality of life, general health, and higher-quality counseling positively affect postoperative sexual quality of life, whereas sternal pain, fear, and erectile dysfunction play a negative role. Pre- and postoperative care guidelines should be improved. Further prospective large cohort studies for males and females are required.

Background: Treating urinary incontinence and erectile dysfunction improves quality of life for many patients. In particular, sphincter and penile prostheses achieve very good results when conservative therapy options are exhausted. The aim of this study is to present the development and current state of sphincter and penile prosthesis implantation in Germany., Materials and Methods: We carried out an analysis of the Diagnosis Related Groups billing data in Germany from 2006-2016. We described the state of care in 2016 based on the German hospitals' quality reports., Results: Between 2006 and 2012 implantations of sphincter prostheses in Germany increased from 739 to 1112 (p < 0.001), the amount of implanting hospitals also increased from 129 to 206 (p < 0.001). From 2012-2016, the number of cases decreased to 980 and the number of hospitals to 198. In 2016, 168 (88%) urological hospitals implanted 1-9 sphincter prostheses and 23 (12%) hospitals implanted ≥ 10 sphincter prostheses. The top 10 hospitals (≥20 sphincters) implanted 34% (283/839) of all sphincters. Between 2006 and 2013 the number of implanted penile prostheses continuously increased from 263 to 503 (p < 0.001), the number of implanting hospitals from 71 to 107 (p < 0.001). From 2013-2016, the number of cases (p = 0.9) and the number of implanting hospitals (p = 0.5) stagnated. The proportion of penile prostheses implanted as part of gender reassignment surgery increased from 17% in 2006 to 25% in 2016 (p = 0.03). In 2016, 83 (85%) urological hospitals implanted 1-6 penile prostheses and 14 (15%) hospitals implanted ≥ 7 prostheses. The 7 top hospitals (≥20 prostheses/year) implanted 232/448 (52%) of the prostheses., Conclusions: The current state of urological endoprosthetics in Germany shows a small number of high-volume centers, but also a large number of hospitals with a small number of cases. Since 2012/2013, there has been a stagnation in the number of cases of penile and sphincter prosthesis implantations. In view of the number of radical prostatectomy cases, this development suggests an undersupply.

Background: Erectile dysfunction is a condition that shows a continuously growing prevalence in the male population. The penis prosthesis implant (PPI) qualifies as an effective form of therapy., Objectives: The aim of this study was to analyze the sexual satisfaction rate and quality of life in patients who had suffered from erectile dysfunction and who were treated with a penile prosthesis. The patient's partners were also surveyed., Methods: We collected data from patients who underwent surgery in the Center of Excellence for Penile Implants, University Hospital Schleswig-Holstein, Campus Kiel, Kiel, Germany. Questionnaires with validated scores (EDITS, EDITS Partner) were sent to all patients and their partners via mail., Results: The satisfaction rate in this study was high which shows that the patients and partners are pleased, and the high sexual satisfaction rate led to a higher quality of life., Conclusion: The penile prosthesis implantation as a last option of therapy for erectile dysfunction is useful and brings more than adequate results.

Introduction: Prior epidemiology studies on erectile dysfunction (ED) have varied in geography/place, time period, and methodology. Due to this variability, comparisons of data across studies are greatly limited. Additionally, little is known about the rates of comorbid ED and benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH)., Aim: To update the prevalence of ED and patient characteristics using a single methodology in 8 countries: Brazil, China, France, Germany, Italy, Spain, the United Kingdom, and the United States., Methods: This retrospective cross-sectional study included men (≥18 years) who self-reported experiencing difficulty in achieving or maintaing an erection in the past 6 months in the 2015 and 2016 National Health and Wellness Surveys (N = 97,159). Pairwise comparisons between the United States and each of the other countries were performed among respondents with ED and no BPH, aged ≥18 years, and within the subset of men aged 40-70 years., Main Outcome Measures: ED prevalence (with BPH, with no BPH, and overall), health characteristics, and ED risk factors were assessed., Results: ED with BPH was found to be < 6.0% in all countries. ED prevalence overall varied from 37.2% (Brazil) to 48.6% (Italy). Similar patterns were observed for the subset of men aged 40-70 years. Patients in Brazil were younger (aged ≥18: 43.85 vs. 52.35; aged 40-70: 52.94 vs. 56.76 years; for both, P < .05) than those in the United States. ED-related comorbidities were more common in European countries, comparatively., Conclusion: This study provides an important update and outlook to ED epidemiology in Brazil, China, France, Germany, Italy, Spain, the United Kingdom, and the United States. Overall, ED prevalence is high, relative to some previous estimates. Findings from this study highlight the continued burden ED plays in the lives of men in these countries. Goldstein I, Goren A, Li VW, et al. Epidemiology Update of Erectile Dysfunction in Eight Countries with High Burden. Sex Med Rev 2020;8:48-58., (Copyright © 2019 International Society for Sexual Medicine. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.)

Aim: To evaluate the association of erectile dysfunction (ED) with work productivity loss, activity impairment and health-related quality of life (HRQoL) across Brazil, China, France, Germany, Italy, Spain, the UK and the US., Methods: This cross-sectional observational study used data from adult men (40-70 years old; N = 52 697) from the 2015 and 2016 National Health and Wellness Surveys. ED assessment was based on self-reported difficulty in achieving or maintaining an erection in the past 6 months. Impairment to work and non-work activities and HRQoL were assessed for each country and compared against the US. Multivariable models tested interactions between ED status and country for each outcome., Results: Overall ED prevalence was reported as 49.7%, with Italy reporting the highest rate (54.7%). Men with ED reported significantly higher absenteeism (7.1% vs 3.2%), presenteeism (22.5% vs 10.1%), overall work productivity impairment (24.8% vs 11.2%), activity impairment (28.6% vs 14.5%) and significantly lower Mental Component Summary scores (MCS; 46.7 vs 51.2), Physical Component Summary scores (PCS; 48.3 vs 53.0), and health state utilities (SF-6D: 0.693 vs 0.778; all, P < 0.001) than men with no ED. After adjusting for covariates, compared with the US, the association of ED status with overall work productivity impairment was greatest in the UK (26% higher; P < 0.05), and with MCS, PCS and SF-6D scores was greatest in China (-2.67, -1.58, and -0.043 points, respectively; all, P < 0.001). Greater ED severity was significantly associated with higher impairment to work and non-work activities and lower HRQoL, with China reporting the highest burden, compared with the US (most P < 0.05)., Conclusion: ED poses a significant burden with respect to work productivity and HRQoL, with greater severity associated with worse outcomes. Better management and earlier detection may help reduce this burden, especially in countries reporting a strong association between ED and poor economic and health outcomes., (© 2019 John Wiley & Sons Ltd.)

Background and Purpose: For localized prostate cancer, treatment options include external beam radiotherapy (EBRT), radical prostatectomy (RP), and brachytherapy (BT). Erectile dysfunction (ED) is a common side-effect. Our aim was to evaluate penile erectile function (EF) before and after BT, EBRT, or RP using a validated self-administered quality-of-life survey from a prospective registry., Material and Methods: Analysis included 478 patients undergoing RP (n = 252), EBRT (n = 91), and BT (n = 135) with at least 1 year of follow-up and EF documented using IIEF-5 scores at baseline, 6 weeks, 6 months, 1 year, and annually thereafter., Results: Differences among treatments were most pronounced among patients with no or mild initial ED (IIEF-5 ≥ 17). Overall, corrected for baseline EF and age, BT was associated with higher IIEF-5 scores than RP (+ 7.8 IIEF-5 score) or EBRT (+ 3.1 IIEF-5 score). EBRT was associated with better IIEF-5 scores than RP (+ 4.7 IIEF-5 score). In patients undergoing EBRT or RP with bilateral nerve sparing (NS), recovery of EF was observed and during follow-up, the differences to BT were not statistically significant. Overall age had a negative impact on EF preservation (corrected for baseline IIEF)., Conclusion: In our series, EF was adversely affected by each treatment modality. Considered overall, BT provided the best EF preservation in comparison to EBRT or RP.

Background: Erectile dysfunction after radical prostatectomy (RPx) does affect the sexual life of patients and their partners. In our study, we evaluated sexual life over the long-term of 60 months following nerve-sparing (ns) RPx in couples who successfully performed sexual intercourse (SI) 12 months after surgery., Patients and Method: A total of 36 patients and their female partners who had SI prior to and 12 months after nsRPx were included in this study. Sixty months following nsRPx, couples were asked about frequency of SI, satisfaction of sexual life, usage of medical aid for erections, and sexual function [patients: IIEF-5 (International Index of Erectile Function), partners: FSFI (Female Sexual Function Index)]., Results: Thirty couples (83.3%) were available for follow-up. A total of 70% of couples performed SI 60 months after nsRPx. In contrast to couples who did not have SI 60 months after nsRPx, couples who successfully had SI were more satisfied, had SI more often, had higher IIEF-5 scores, and higher frequency of bilateral ns surgery. In 80% of those patients, no medical aid except PDE-5 inhibitors were used. The partners of those patients were more satisfied with their sexual life, compared to the patients themselves. Couples, in whom the patient had IIEF-5 scores ≥19 were more satisfied, had SI more often, and the partners had higher FSFI scores, compared to couples with patients' IIEF-5 scores <19., Conclusion: Couples who had successfully performed SI within 12 months following nsRPx continue to have satisfying SI in the long-term. Those couples are more satisfied with their sexual life and have SI more often prior to and 12 months after nsRPx.

Purpose: Despite advanced medical treatment options, many prostate cancer patients are still confronted with unfavorable physical and psychological burdens. Physical exercise has proven to be beneficial for prostate cancer patients, yet specific exercise offers are rare. The ProRehab Study aimed to evaluate the exercise program offered in rehabilitative prostate cancer sports groups in Germany and determine whether it is beneficial for patients following prostatectomy., Methods: Eighty-five prostate cancer patients were recruited for a multicenter, 2-armed, nonrandomized controlled trial 6 to 12 weeks after prostatectomy. The intervention group (n = 56) took part in a 15-month supervised multimodal exercise program. Exercise sessions took place once a week for 60 minutes at a moderate intensity (3.84-4.84 MET-hour). The control group (n = 29) received no intervention. Outcomes included aerobic fitness, activity levels, quality of life, disease- and treatment-related adverse effects, such as urinary incontinence and erectile dysfunction, and relapse-relevant blood values. Intention-to-treat analysis was performed., Results: A significant between-group difference was observed in the urinary symptom score (P = .027). Physical fitness, urinary incontinence, physical, role, emotional, and social functioning, as well as further disease- and treatment-related side effects (dyspnea, urinary, and bowel symptoms) significantly improved within the intervention group. Erectile dysfunction and physical activity levels improved similarly in both groups., Conclusions: The presented data hint at the potential of rehabilitative sports groups for prostate cancer patients. However, according to the current state of the art, exercise intensity and volume may need to be increased to enhance the effects. A number of shorter studies (8-24 weeks) have proven significant between-group differences in quality of life, incontinence, and fitness outcomes when patients exercised 2 to 3 times per week. This is the first exercise intervention study with prostate cancer patients that was conducted over 15 months. Further studies are necessary to investigate whether prostate cancer patients recover sooner when receiving a supervised exercise program., (© The Author(s) 2015.)

Background: Prostate cancer (PCA) is the most common form of neoplasm in men and various treatment options are available. Knowledge of health-related quality of life (HRQL) can provide information to support informed decision-making. In addition, information on factors influencing HRQL can provide indications for the further development of medical treatment. The aim of the study was to obtain data on HRQL after inpatient treatment of PCA and the identification of determinants of HRQL after PCA in routine healthcare., Materials and Methods: In this study a total of 1165 beneficiaries of a German health insurance with a hospital stay due to prostate cancer (ICD C61) were surveyed on their health-related quality of life using the European Organization for Research and Treatment of Cancer quality of life questionnaire version 3 (EORTC QLQ-C30 V3.0) and disease-specific symptoms using the perceived sensitivity to medicine (PSM) scale 14 months after discharge. Survey data were linked with pseudonymous claims data of the health insurance provider. Determinants of HRQL were examined by logistic regression., Results: Responses from 825 men (mean age 67.6 years and 80% treated with radical prostatectomy) were available for analysis (response 70.8%). Compared to the reference population impairments in HRQL were reported especially in terms of the roles and social functionality. The prostate-specific symptoms varied depending on the treatment strategy. A nerve-sparing surgical technique reduced the likelihood of erectile dysfunction. Other protective factors were no pre-existing comorbidities and younger age., Discussion: The effects of PCA on the HRQOL varied by age, comorbidities and treatment modality which should be considered in healthcare information and counseling of patients.

Introduction: Open radical prostatectomy (RPE) is a standardized surgical technique with good oncologic/functional results. Nevertheless, the postoperative quality of life can be affected significantly by urinary incontinence and erectile dysfunction. Consequently, data of postoperative health-related quality of life come increasingly into public interest., Materials and Methods: This paper aims to evaluate the quality of care after radical RPE at a certified prostate cancer center. The oncological outcome, rate of complications, reintervention and transfusions as well as the rate of continence and potency of a total collective of nearly 400 patients was obtained in a standardized manner between January 2008 and June 2012 using the clinic's internal tumor documentation system and commonly used, validated questionnaires. Due to consistent methodology, partial results can finally be compared with data prior to establishment of the prostate cancer center., Results: This study is the first German report demonstrating an improvement of treatment results in a certified prostate cancer center. The rate of complications, reintervention, transfusions, and R1 status were significantly lower than in the precenter era. The evaluation of potency is sobering compared to current published literature, whereas satisfactory results were obtained for continency., Discussion: Evaluation of the data contributes to the quality of treatment and outcome of certified prostate cancer centers and allows reliable decision-making and honest patient education in the future.

Objective: To address the biochemical and functional outcomes after radical prostatectomy (RP) of men aged <50 years in a large European population., Patients and Methods: Among 13,268 patients who underwent RP for clinically localised prostate cancer at our centre (1992-2011), 443 (3.3%) men aged <50 were identified. Biochemical recurrence (BCR) and functional outcomes (International Index of Erectile Function [IIEF-5], use of pads), were prospectively evaluated and compared between men aged <50 years and older patients., Results: Men aged <50 years were more likely to harbour D'Amico low-risk (49.4 vs 34.9%, P < 0.001), organ-confined (82.6 vs 69.4%, P < 0.001) and low-grade tumours (Gleason score <7: 33.1 vs 28.7%, P < 0.001). Multivariate Cox regression analysis showed that age <50 years (hazard ratio 0.99; confidence interval 0.72-1.31; P = 0.9) was not a predictor of BCR. Urinary continence was more favourable in younger patients, resulting in continence rates of 97.4% vs 91.6% in most recent years (2009-2011) for patients aged <50 vs ≥50 years. After RP, a median IIEF-5 drop of 4 points in younger men vs 8 points in older patients was recorded (P < 0.001). Favourable recovery of urinary continence and erectile function in patients aged <50 years compared with their older counterparts was confirmed after multivariable adjustment., Conclusion: Men aged <50 years diagnosed with localised prostate cancer should not be discouraged from RP, as the postoperative rates of urinary incontinence and erectile dysfunction are low and probability of BCR-free survival at 2 and 5 years is high., (© 2013 The Authors. BJU International © 2013 BJU International.)

Background: There are conflicting data regarding the significance of the presence of the male prepuce or circumcision on erectile function and sexual satisfaction in men., Materials and Methods: A total of 10,000 men selected according to the age distribution of the city of Cottbus (Brandenburg, Germany) were provided with a questionnaire comprised of 35 items integrating the International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF-6) and further questions on sexual quality of life, comorbidities and previous surgical treatment. Of the men who completed the questionnaire 2,499 were living in a partnership and formed the study group for this survey. Based on the IIEF-6, two study endpoints (SEP) were defined (point values ≤ 25/SEP1 and ≤ 21/SEP2). By multivariable logistic regression analysis the independent influence of previous circumcision on both endpoints was assessed. Furthermore, a correlation between sexual satisfaction of men and circumcision was also analyzed., Results: Of the study group167 men had undergone circumcision (6.7 %). Erectile dysfunction (ED) was present in 40.1 % of men based on SEP1 (minor to severe ED) and in 27.8 % based on SEP2 (moderate to severe ED). Based on SEP1 as well as SEP2 age, history of smoking, hypertension, diabetes, chronic ischemic heart disease, peripheral arterial obstructive disease, cirrhosis of the liver and history of pelvic surgery were found to have an independent influence on the presence of ED. A status after circumcision did not show an independent influence on either study endpoints (SEP1: OR 1.36, p=0.174; SEP2: OR 1.42, p=0.175). Furthermore, there was no significant correlation between sexual satisfaction of men and a history of circumcision., Conclusions: Based on the present study which represents the largest survey worldwide on male ED using the IIEF as a validated instrument, it could not be confirmed that the prevalence of ED is increased in men following circumcision. Sexual satisfaction of men in this study was independent of the presence of the prepuce.

Testis cancer is a disease that directly affects a man's sense of masculinity and involves treatments compromising sexual function. The aim of this study was to investigate the prevalence of sexual dysfunction and the influence of chronic pain on sexuality in long-term testis cancer survivors. Thus, we examined 539 patients after they had one testis removed because of a testicular germ cell tumor. Having completed oncologic therapy, all patients received a detailed questionnaire asking about the occurrence and clinical presentation of testis pain before and after orchiectomy. In addition, items from the abridged International Index of Erectile Function and Brief Sexual Function Inventory were used to gain precise information on individual sexual function. Overall, 34.5% of our testicular cancer survivors complained of reduced sexual desire, and sexual activity was reduced in 41.6%. Erectile dysfunction was present in up to 31.5% of patients. In 24.4%, the ability to maintain an erection during intercourse was impaired. Ejaculatory disorders (premature, delayed, retrograde, or anejaculation) occurred in 84.9% of our testis cancer survivors. A total of 32.4% of our participants experienced a reduced intensity of orgasm, and 95.4% experienced reduced overall sexual satisfaction. There was a significant correlation between the occurrence of chronic pain symptoms and the relative frequency and intensity of erectile dysfunction, inability to maintain an erection, ejaculation disorders, and reduced intensity of orgasm. In conclusion, chronic pain has a negative impact on sexuality in testis cancer survivors.

The core question of the study was whether the nerve-sparing status and surgical approach affected the patients' sexual life in the first year after surgery. In addition, determinants of erectile function (EF) and the extent of sexual activity were investigated. We conducted a multicentric, longitudinal study in seven German hospitals before, 3, 6 and 12 months after radical prostatectomy (RP). A total of 329 patients were asked to self-assess the symptoms associated with erectile dysfunction (ED). These symptoms were assessed using the International Index of Erectile Function and EORTC QLQ-PR25 questionnaires. A multiple regression model was used to test the influence of clinical, socio-demographic and quality-of-life-associated variables on the patients' EF 1 year after RP. Before surgery, 39% of patients had a severe ED (complete impotence). At 3, 6 and 12 months after surgery, it was 80, 79 and 71%, respectively. Although the surgical approach had no significant effect on EF, patients who had undergone nerve-sparing surgery had significantly lower ED rates. Nevertheless, 1 year after RP, 66% of these patients had severe ED. Age, nerve-sparing status and the burden of urinary symptoms had the greatest impact on the patients' EF. Regardless of nerve-sparing status and surgical approach, postsurgical improvement of EF does not mean a full convalescence of presurgical EF. Instead, it may rather reduce the degree of postsurgical ED in time. Consequently, urologists should disclose to the patient that ED is a likely side effect of RP.

For men erectile function is essential for quality of life. Besides urine incontinence postsurgical erectile dysfunction (ED) following radical prostatectomy (RPE) represents a significant and prevalent problem. One of the first approaches to this condition should be a consultation performed by professionals in a rehabilitation clinic.A total of 149 patients post RPE participated in this prospective study. All patients were questioned about their understanding of postoperative surgical ED after RPE and if affected they were asked about their own psychological burden as well as their knowledge of possible therapy options. The qualities of presurgical patient information as well as the modules of information pertaining to ED during the rehabilitation were evaluated. Of the patients, 53% expressed that they experienced a considerable burden due to postsurgical ED during their follow-up rehabilitation (AR group) and 70% of the patients during oncological rehabilitation treatment (rehab group). Men who were sexually more active prior to surgery suffered more from postsurgical ED than their less active counterparts. A negative correlation between psychological burden and age was found in the AR group, which however was levelled in the rehab group. Particularly in older patients the burden of ED increases with more time elapsing after the operation. The medical information on ED therapy options provided during the inpatient rehabilitation was considered to be essential by 60% of the men in the AR group and 48% of the patients in the rehab group.Therapeutic possibilities for postsurgical ED following RPE cannot always be given to patients in the preoperative phase or during their stay in the hospital. Since however a large majority of men suffer from postoperative ED following RPE a specialized inpatient urological rehabilitation is suited for a comprehensive consultation.

Due to demographic developments in industrial nations, age-correlated diseases such as diabetes are becoming more important. In conclusion, lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) are a frequent reason for searching treatment by urologists. The association between LUTS and benign prostatic hyperplasia or neurologic diseases is accepted. In contrast there is limited knowledge about the connection of diabetes mellitus and LUTS although an autonomic neuropathy due to diabetes makes urinary bladder dysfunction likely. The following survey covered data of 4071 patients with diabetes type 2 with a medium age of 67,4 years and a diabetes duration of 8,8 years. The incidence of LUTS in diabetic patients increases by increasing age, longer diabetes duration and concomitant diabetes complications e. G. erectile dysfunction. There was a difference in severity of LUTS in patients in urologic treatment or in treatment of a general practitioner: 81,1% of the patients in urologic treatment reported LUTS; in comparison 60,7% of patients being treated by general practitioners complained of LUTS. The LUTS being reported in urologic practice were more severe; e. G. the number of incontinence episodes per week of urologic patients was 7,5, the number of incontinence episodes in general practice 5,7. Lower urinary tract symptoms were most frequently classified as OAB in male patients and classified as mixed incontinence in females. The amount of patients with LUTS was higher in patients with diabetes complications (79,8% vs. 49,9%); there was only a small difference in the number of patients with LUTS stratified by co-medication (64% patients with LUTS without any co-medication; 72% patients with co-medication). The high number of diabetic patients with LUTS in general and urologic practice indicates an underestimation of the problem. LUTS in patients with type-2-diabetes should be screened as eye complications, erectile dysfunction or circulatory disorders by urologists and general practitioners.

Background: We evaluated the long-term health-related quality of life (HRQoL) after modern prostate brachytherapy (PB)., Patients and Methods: The European Organization for Research and Treatment of Cancer (EORTC) prostate cancer quality-of-life questionnaire, QLQ-PR25, and the modified International Continence Society (ICS) male questionnaire were sent to 296 men treated with PB at the University Medical Center Mannheim. To evaluate the influence of age, we subclassified two groups: group 1 <65 years, group 2 > or =65 years. 258 of the 296 patients were alive at the time of assessment. Of 238 questionnaires (92% response rate), 231 were suitable for analysis. Median follow-up was 51 months., Results: Of group 1 77.8% and of group 2 73.4% of the men were in good, very good or excellent health. There was a low rate of moderate (10.4%) or strong (1.0%) symptoms regarding urinary functioning. Stress incontinence was uncommon. Only 28.2% reported moderate or strong (up to 17.6%) symptoms regarding sexual functioning. In group 1 48.6% and in group 2 25.0% of patients reported no or minor erectile dysfunction (p < 0.007). There was no severe overall rectal dysfunction (<2%)., Conclusion: Our data substantiate the favorable long-term HRQoL outcomes associated with modern PB techniques. Significant age differences were observed in sexual symptoms and less pronounced age differences in urinary symptoms. We found a low rate of urinary symptoms and no evidence of severe rectal dysfunction.

We analysed non-motor symptoms (NMS) related to autonomic dysfunction in 3414 patients with Parkinson's disease (PD) enrolled in the multicentre registry of the German Competence Network on PD. Orthostatic hypotension (> 20 mmHg systolic or > 10 mmHg diastolic) was reported for 10% of women and 11% of men, urinary incontinence for 22% of women and 21% of men, sexual dysfunction for 8% of women and 30% of men (50% of whom reported erectile dysfunction) and sleep disturbances for 43% of women and 35% of men. Autonomic symptoms occurred in a frequency similar to severe disabling dyskinesia which was reported for 16% of women and 11% of men. A logistic regression analyses with age, sex and disease duration as covariates revealed a significant correlation of orthostatic hypotension and urinary incontinence with age and disease duration whilst sexual dysfunction was related to age only. These observations suggests that the effects of the PD process and ageing contribute to non-levodopa responsive NMS. Sleep disturbances were more common in women and a correlation was found with disease duration only supporting the notion that sleep is specifically affected in PD.

Background: The progress of science in the field of male sexuality stimulated the interest to investigate female sexual function and dysfunction. The understanding of sexuality as a central part of life quality and satisfaction of humans, opened the doors for research of sexuality and sexual disorders. The aim of the study was to evaluate the prevalence of female sexual dysfunction ("FSD") and erectile dysfunction ("ED") in a community population and the relation to urinary incontinence., Material and Methods: We developed 2 questionnaires (men 53 questions, women 55). The IPSS and KEED (Kölner Erfassungsbogen der erektilen Dysfunktion) were integrated in the male questionnaire and the FSFI (Female Sexual Function Index) in the female questionnaire. The questionnaire was send to each 10,000 women and men (age 20-80 years). The response rate in women was 41 and in men 46%, the mean age 43 in women and 53 in men., Results: The prevalence of female sexual dysfunction was 38.2%, and it was 19.6% for male sexual dysfunction. 26% of the women and 41.4% of men suffered from urinary incontinence/lower urinary tract symptoms ("LUTS"). The prevalence increased significantly with age. 46.5% of the incontinent women suffered from FSD versus 35.2% of the continent women. 34% of women, who had consulted a physician because of sexual problems in the past, suffered from FSD and urine incontinence. The therapy necessity in general is around 18.4%. There was a statistically significant correlation between LUTS and ED. 31.8% of the men with LUTS suffered from ED versus 10.3% of continent men (p=0.001)., Conclusion: Up to now this is the largest single center, community based, study of FSD and ED. We could demonstrate a high prevalence of FSD and ED in general and particular in urinary incontinent persons.

The comparison of results of previous studies on the prevalence of erectile dysfunction is hampered due to differences in study design and research instruments including definitions used. The aim of the study was to determine the prevalence of erectile dysfunction/erectile disorder (ED) using different definitions. An epidemiological cross-sectional study was conducted between May and November 2002 in Berlin, Germany. A total of 6000 men between 40 and 79 years of age were randomly selected by the Berlin Office of Vital Statistics and were sent a questionnaire by mail. The prevalence of ED was determined using five different methods. A total of 1915 questionnaires were eligible for analysis. The five different definitions yielded age-adjusted ED prevalence rates between 18 and 48%. Age was strongly correlated with all five definitions (P<0.001). These results indicate the need for standardized criteria when conducting future studies on ED and may aid in designing public health and clinical management strategies.

Introduction: Erectile dysfunctions are prevalent but underdiagnosed and undertreated health problems. Communication barriers between patients and physicians are one of the main reasons for this and responsible for a low report rate of sexual dysfunction., Aim: The main aim of the study was to investigate which phrasing and communication strategies gained the highest acceptance from physicians and their patients and were considered the most effective., Main Outcome Measures: A documentation form on which each consultation was rated by the participating physicians., Methods: A large group of physicians was asked to hand out a short patient questionnaire to all male patients over 30 years. The physician was instructed to discuss the questionnaire with the patient and to ask him about sexual problems. A total of 1,191 physicians took part in the study that documented a total of 10,622 consultations with an average duration of 15 minutes., Results: The main results were: (i) the patient questionnaire found a high level of acceptance and 54% of discussions of sexual health were prompted by it; (ii) the patients' reaction to physicians addressing sexual health was positive in more than two-thirds of the sample and characterized by openness, willingness to communicate, and relief that their sexual problems had been addressed; (iii) from the physicians' perspective, the most favored communication strategies were a clear signaling of a willingness to talk, and addressing treatment possibilities or signaling that help was available; and (iv) the resulting discussion led to further diagnostic measures in 25% of patients and to further therapeutic measures in 60% of patients., Conclusions: There are good grounds for concluding that: (i) addressing a patient's sexual health as part of a physician's everyday routine is feasible in terms of duration and content; and (ii) a short patient questionnaire is an excellent aid for patients and physicians for initiating communication on the topic.

Predominant symptoms in prostate cancer patients are erectile dysfunctions and urinary problems. As decreases of these functions can be attributed to disease and treatment but also to age-related decreases, we conducted a study on a German reference population measuring general quality of life (QoL) as well as prostate-specific symptoms. In cooperation with a German health insurance company, 3000 questionnaires were mailed to a randomly selected sample of men aged 45-75 years. Questionnaires used were the EORTC QLQ-C30 and a prostate-specific module (PSM). One thousand one hundred and fifty questionnaires were returned (response rate: 37.6%). QoL data from this reference population were compared to QoL data from a historical cohort study of prostate cancer patients following either prostatectomy or radiotherapy. In terms of general QoL, the reference population showed similar QoL scores as prostatectomy patients, but better scores than radiotherapy patients. On the PSM, the reference sample showed better overall QoL, but a surprisingly high extent of erectile dysfunction, urinary problems and psychic strain. Taking into account the sensitive topic of this study (sexuality and urinary problems), the response rate is more than satisfying. Older men in our randomly selected, population-based sample do not show perfect erectile and urinary function. These findings should be considered when interpreting QoL data of prostate cancer patients.

In light of the fact that internationally accepted diagnostic criteria for erectile disorder are hardly considered in prevalence studies, the Berlin Male Study (BMS) was designed to collect data both on the frequency of dysfunctional erections experienced (DSM-IV criterion A) and the concomitance of related distress (DSM-IV criterion B). As a result, the age-adjusted total prevalence for erectile disorder (17.8%) was markedly lower than in other studies with comparable samples (40-79 years of age). Likewise, the age-dependent increase in prevalence was by far less prominent than commonly reported in the literature. These findings strongly suggest the necessity to clearly differentiate between erectile disorder, indicating that the patient is experiencing some degree of distress associated with his dysfunctional erection, and erectile dysfunction, indicating that the respective individual is not too concerned about his dysfunctional erection (with respect to erectile function, there is no reason to refer to the latter as a patient). The authors suggest that the internationally used abbreviation "ED" be differentiated into "EDy" when referring to erectile dysfunction and "EDi" when referring to erectile disorder. This extended perspective on differential diagnosis would not only make future studies (more) comparable, it would also do justice to clinical experience.

Of 517 urologist practices approached, 93% participated in a pilot study on the quality of care in the treatment of erectile dysfunction (ED). Treatment modalities and satisfaction were documented for 10,750 ED patients in 2002-at a time when vardenafil and tadalafil had not yet been officially approved. Psychological factors (55%), BPH (42%), and hypertension (33%) were given as the most prevalent ED risk factors; 82% of the patients received sildenafil, 20% apomorphine, 12% yohimbine, and 10% intracavernous alprostadil. Of the patients, 81% were satisfied or very satisfied with one of the treatment options offered and 85% and more were satisfied or very satisfied with sildenafil's onset of action, duration of action, efficacy, and tolerability. Of the physicians, 97% rated the opportunity to compare their own treatment results with other urologists' results as important or very important.

The diagnosis of chronic pelvic pain syndrome takes into account the fact that no clear etiology has been identified underlying chronic prostatitis and its associations with multiple somatic and psychological complaints. Based on a representative survey, this study enquires into the prevalence of pelvic pain in the community, its association with sexual dysfunction, somatic complaints and aging. Of the 770 men surveyed, 60 (7.8%) fulfilled the criteria for pelvic pain syndrome. This was assessed by a validated Giessen Prostatitis Symptom Score. Sexual dysfunction (particularly erectile dysfunction and loss of libido) were more frequently reported by men with pelvic pain than by men without a pain syndrome. The great majority of men afflicted by pelvic pain complained of additional pain symptoms (particularly back and joint pain) and fatigue. While sexual and somatic complaints were age-associated in the asymptomatic men, this was not the case for the symptomatic men. Our findings stress the fact that chronic pelvic pain syndrome is a major health problem in middle and late adulthood in men. Differentiated knowledge about comorbidity is a prerequisite for developing new interdisciplinary approaches to the diagnosis and therapy of this to date unsatisfactorily treated syndrome.

Objective: The last few decades have seen a marked increase in mean life expectancy in Central Europe. This has made elderly people and their quality of life a matter of ever-increasing medical concern. Besides the lack of population based studies in Central Europe, the identifying risk factors for the development of erectile dysfunction (ED) is crucial., Methods and Material: A newly developed and validated questionnaire on male erectile dysfunction was mailed to a representative population sample of 8000 men 30 to 80 years of age in the Cologne urban district., Results: The response included 4489 analysable replies (56,1 %). The median age was 51,8 years. Prevalence of ED was estimated at about 19.2 %, with a steep age-related increase (2,3 - 53,4 %) Therapeutic necessity (defined by co-occurrence of ED and dissatisfaction with sex life), also increases with age. The overall number of ED sufferers seeking therapy was 6,8 %. The following illnesses where seen in the ED group: heart failure (14,7 %), pelvic surgery (18,8 %), diabetes mellitus (20,2 %), peripheral arterial circulatory disorders (21,5 %), herniated disc (23,2 %) and hypertension (32,0 %). Although the pathogenetic pathway remains unclear with a prevalence of 72 % "lower urinary tract symptoms" (LUTS) seems to be an age independent risk factor. In contrast, the prevalence of ED in healthy men was around 6,6 %., Conclusions: ED is a common disorder, contributing to dissatisfaction with sex life in a considerable proportion of men. ED is frequently associated with chronic diseases. For this reason adequate interdisciplinary diagnostic workup is essential, to offer patients individually adapted treatment.

Introduction: The results of radical prostatectomy (cancer control, continence and sexual potency) are currently presented separately, while the success of this surgery depends on a combination of good cancer control with maintenance of continence and erections. We propose a score to jointly evaluate and report cancer control and functional results., Methods: The results of 205 radical prostatectomies were studied at one year. Cancer control was evaluated by PSA. Continence and sexual potency were evaluated by a self-administered questionnaire. Each patient was attributed 0 or 4 points according to the presence of absence of biochemical progression (PSA>0.2 ng/ml), 0 or 2 points according to the presence or absence of urinary incontinence (use of pads) and 0 or 1 point according to the presence or absence of impotence (no erections). The sum of these points provided a score classifying the patient into 8 distinct categories, from 0 to 7, each corresponding to a specific status (from 0 (0+0+0): no cancer control-incontinence-impotence to 7 (4+2+1): cancer control-continence-sexual potency)., Results: One year after the operation, 175 (85%) of patients had a PSA less than 0.2 ng/ml, 135 (65.8%) were continent and 64 (32.7%) reported erections. All patients with a score > or =4 had good cancer control, with no functional disorders for a score of 7 (4+2+1) (20%), no disorders of continence for a score of 6 (4+2+0) (31.5%), no disorders of erection for a score of 5 (4+0+1) (8.3%), or with incontinence and impotence for a score of 4 (4+0+0) (21.9%). All patients with a score <4 had a PSA>0.2 ng/ml, but with no functional disorders for a score of 3 (0+2+1) (2.4%), no incontinence for a score of 2 (0+2+0) (8.3%), and no impotence for a score of 1 (0+0+1) (1.9%). 1.9% of patients were incontinent, impotent and showed signs of biochemical progression (score 0=0+0+0)., Conclusion: This score allows analysis of the global (cancer control and functional) results of radical prostatectomy and would facilitate comparisons between various surgical techniques (type of approach, nerve-sparing techniques) and various centres.

Objectives: Due to demographic developments in industrial nations, age-correlated diseases are becoming more important. From many epidemiological studies we know that the prevalence of benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) and the loss of erectile function (= erectile dysfunction or ED) increase with advancing age. Are these two illnesses related or/and independent?, Methods: We mailed our newly developed and validated questionnaire on male erectile dysfunction (KEED), as well as a set of questions pertaining to voiding problems (IPSS), to a representative population sample of 8000 men from 30 to 80 years of age residing in the city of Cologne., Results: The responses included 4489 evaluable replies (56.1%). The response rates in the different age groups ranged from 41 to 61%. The mean age of the men who answered was 51.8 years. The overall prevalence of ED was 19.2% (n=862), with a steep age-related increase from 2 to 53%. Furthermore, 31.2% (n=1957) of all men complained of lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS), the prevalence and the intensity of which increased with age. Interestingly, a high co-morbidity was found between ED and voiding problems. Prevalence of LUTS in men suffering from ED was about 72.2% (n=621) vs. 37.7% (1367) in men with normal erections. The odds ratio was evaluated with 2.11. The trivariate analysis showed that the occurrence of LUTS can be considered as an age-independent risk factor for the development of ED (p<0.001)., Conclusions: Even though the pathogenetic relationship between LUTS and ED is not yet completely understood, one has to postulate a direct association between these two typical symptom complexes in the aging male.

The last few decades have seen a marked increase in mean life expectancy in Central Europe. This has made elderly people and their quality of life a matter of ever-increasing medical concern. Available data from the United States and Scandinavia relating to erectile dysfunction (ED) do not enable us to draw valid conclusions about the current situation in Germany. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the epidemiology of male sexuality in Germany, and the proportion of men who need medical treatment because of increased suffering from this.A newly developed and validated questionnaire on male erectile dysfunction was mailed to a representative population sample of 8000 men, 30-80 y of age in the Cologne urban district. The response included 4489 evaluable replies (56.1%). The response rates in different age groups ranged from 49.2% to 68.4%. Regular sexual activity was reported by 96.0% (youngest age group) to 71.3% (oldest group). There were 31.5%-44% of responders who were dissatisfied with their current sex life. The prevalence of ED was 19.2%, with a steep age-related increase (2.3-53.4%) and a high co-morbidity of ED with hypertension, diabetes, pelvic surgery and 'lower urinary tract symptoms'. When treatment need was defined by co-occurrence of ED and dissatisfaction with sex life, 6.9% men required treatment for ED. Oral treatment of ED was preferred by 73.8% of respondents. There were 46.2% respondents who were willing to contribute more than DM 50 (25 Euro) per month for ED treatment. We conclude that regular sexual activity is a normal finding in advanced age. ED is a frequent disorder, contributing to dissatisfaction with sex life in a considerable proportion of men. The high burden of ED is reflected in willingness to pay for treatment. ED is frequently associated with chronic diseases. Therefore adequate diagnostic workup is essential, to offer patients individually adapted treatment. General non-reimbursability of treatment for ED appears to be unacceptable.