Proportion of Sexual Dysfunction in Patients with Alcohol Dependence Syndrome in a Tertiary Care Hospital: A Cross-sectional Study

Background: A fulfilling sexual life is vital for emotional intimacy, self-esteem, and overall well-being. However, alcohol dependence poses significant challenges to sexual health, often leading to various dysfunctions that adversely affect quality of life. Understanding the prevalence and pattern of these dysfunctions among alcohol-dependent males is essential for comprehensive clinical management and intervention. Methods: This cross-sectional study aimed to evaluate the prevalence of sexual dysfunction and its association with the severity of alcohol dependence among 80 adult male participants diagnosed with Alcohol Dependence Syndrome. The Severity of Alcohol Dependence Questionnaire (SADQ) and the Arizona Sexual Experience Scale (ASEX) were administered. Statistical analyses, including Chi-square tests, ANOVA, and descriptive statistics, were performed using SPSS. Results: The mean age of participants was 39 years [38.96 ± 4.77]. A majority (55%) resided in rural areas, 21% had received formal education, and most belonged to low socioeconomic backgrounds; 88% were married. Based on SADQ scores, 65% demonstrated severe alcohol dependence, 26.25% moderate, and 8.75% mild, with a mean score of 32.96. Overall, 70% of participants experienced sexual dysfunction. The most common issues included low sexual drive (51.2%), difficulty achieving orgasm (50%), erection difficulty (46.25%), difficulty in arousal (43.75%), and orgasmic dissatisfaction (32.5%). Multiple sexual dysfunctions were frequently observed in a single patient, and a highly significant association was found between the severity of alcohol dependence and each type of sexual dysfunction. Conclusion: The high prevalence of sexual dysfunction among alcohol-dependent males underscores the need for routine sexual health screening and integrated therapeutic approaches within de-addiction programs. Addressing sexual dysfunction as a comorbid concern may enhance motivation for recovery and improve overall psychosocial functioning.