SEXUAL DYSFUNCTION IN HCV PATIENTS- EXPERIENCE AT TERTIARY CARE CENTER OF NORTHEREN INDIA

Abstract

Introduction - Sexual dysfunction is highly prevalent in patients with chronic Hepatitis C Virus (HCV), with rates reported between 19% and 88%. It presents in various forms, including premature ejaculation, decreased libido, erectile dysfunction, and arousal disorders, often linked to both the disease itself and its treatment. Aim of study- To estimate prevalence of sexual dysfunction in Hepatitis C patients at tertiary care center of Northern India. Material and Methods- This study was conducted at Medical Gastroenterology Department at PGIMS, Rohtak. It was a prospective study done over one year, from 01.04.2025 to 31.03.2026, during which 200 confirmed hepatitis C patients were enquired for any kind of sexual dysfunction. For better understanding 100 patients each of chronic hepatitis and cirrhosis were enrolled. All 200 HCV patients were males, in 20-50 yrs age group and were sexually active. Patient with past history of sexual dysfunction, anxiety, depression, diabetes mellitus, hypertension, hypothyroidism which can cause sexual dysfunction were not included in the study. All hepatitis C patients were confirmed on anti HCV antibody on Enzyme linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) test and HCV RNA Quantitative on Polymerase chain reaction test (PCR). The written informed consent was taken before enrollment in the study. Observation and Results- Our department is Model treatment Center (MTC) under National Viral Hepatitis Control Program (NVHCP) and is one of the high flow centers in India. On daily basis, 8-10 new and 20 follow up patients of HCV come for consultation and till date 12,000 HCV patients have been enrolled in last twelve years in this program. On prospective analysis of 200 confirmed hepatitis C patients, all were males and 100 each were in chronic hepatitis and cirrhotic stage and both were treated with oral antiviral drugs. The sexual dysfunction was seen in 40 patients (20 %), out of which 25 were in F0-F3 stage and 15 had cirrhosis. Most common kind of sexual dysfunction was erectile dysfunction, followed by premature ejaculation and loss of libido. Conclusion -The management of hepatitis C patients need broader approach and all of them should be evaluated not only from hepatic point of view but also for its extra hepatic impact, of which sexual evaluation is must. The sexual aspect is often missed by treating team as well as not shared by patients. In India, masculinity is attached to core of heart of males and majority do not accept and share with health professionals. Hence, good repo of doctor with patients will help in healthy discussion among them on this sensitive issue.