Risk Factors, Depression, and Drugs Influencing Sexual Activity in Individuals With and Without Stroke

The aim of the study was to analyze factors affecting sexual activity in individuals with and without stroke, ages 40-59 years, in a national, cross-sectional, population-based sample derived from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES).Descriptive, cross-sectional survey.Data were obtained from the NHANES (2011-2012) data set from individuals (N = 3,649) completing items related to cardiovascular risk factors, drugs, and sexual activity. Data were analyzed using chi-square, t tests, and logistic regression.Overall, number of drugs, smoking, and depression significantly predicted sexual activity. When comparing sexually active to not sexually active, those with stroke had significantly less sexual activity (t = 2.822, p = .005) and reduced sexual activity per week or month (χ = 16.275, p = .005, df = 4). Those taking angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors and statins had reduced sexual activity.Findings illustrate the importance of risk factor modification and nurses engaging in sexual assessment, education, and counseling to support sexual quality of life in younger individuals with stroke.