Diabetes: advice for erectile dysfunction
Indicator
The percentage of male patients with diabetes who have a record of erectile dysfunction with a record of advice and assessment of contributory factors and treatment options in the preceding 15 months.
Indicator type
General practice indicator suitable for use in the Quality and Outcomes Framework.
This document does not represent formal NICE guidance. For a full list of NICE indicators, see our menu of indicators.
To find out how to use indicators and how we develop them, see our NICE indicator process guide.
Rationale
Erectile dysfunction is a manifestation of autonomic neuropathy as a complication of long-term hyperglycaemia and as such is a common complication of diabetes. Erectile dysfunction is a traumatic complication for some men with diabetes. Although not perceived as life-threatening, it can have a significant impact on the quality of life for men with diabetes, their partners and families.
Risk factors for erectile dysfunction include sedentary lifestyle, obesity, smoking, hypercholesterolemia and metabolic syndrome.
The issue of erectile dysfunction can be a difficult topic for both, patients and healthcare professionals. It is important that it is discussed in a sensitive manner which allows patients to voice their concerns in a safe and supportive environment. Practices may wish to consider who in the practice team is best placed to address this issue with patients, how to discuss the issue and whether or not to integrate it into the diabetes annual review.
Source guidance
Type 1 diabetes in adults: diagnosis and management. NICE guideline NG17 (2015, updated 2022), recommendations 1.15.36 and 1.15.37
Type 2 diabetes in adults: management. NICE guideline NG28 (2015, updated 2022), recommendations 1.8.21, 1.8.22 and 1.8.23
Specification
Numerator: The number of patients in the denominator with a record of advice and assessment of contributory factors and treatment options in the preceding 15 months.
Denominator: The number of male patients on the diabetes register with a record of erectile dysfunction.
Calculation: Numerator divided by the denominator, multiplied by 100.
Exclusions: Male patients with no record of erectile dysfunction.
Minimum population: The indicator would be appropriate to assess performance at individual general practice level.
ISBN: 978-1-4731-6080-4