Abstract
BACKGROUND: Racial differences in hematological profiles may play a role in the pathophysiology of erectile dysfunction (ED). However, the available evidence is not comprehensive. This study sought to assess racial disparities in blood cell parameters among patients with ED and to explore their clinical significance. METHODS: This investigation utilized cross-sectional data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) from 2001 to 2004, including a sample of 1,743 ED patients. Linear regression models, adjusted for sociodemographic variables [age, body mass index (BMI), income] and clinical covariates (hypertension, diabetes, smoking status), were used to examine the associations between race and hematological parameters, including hemoglobin (Hb), neutrophils (Neu), white blood cells (Wbc), and platelets (Plt). Additional analyses stratified by age (≤40 vs. >40 years) were conducted to evaluate potential effect modification. RESULTS: The study identified significant racial disparities in hematological parameters. Black patients demonstrated significantly lower levels of Hb, Neu, and Wbc compared to White patients (all P<0.01). These disparities were consistent across various age groups, though they were notably more pronounced in younger individuals (Hb: 14.82 vs. 15.78 in ≤40 years old). While sociodemographic factors partially accounted for disparities in Plt counts, other variations may be attributed to genetic or inflammatory mechanisms. CONCLUSIONS: The observed racial differences in hematological profiles among ED patients underscore the necessity for race-specific clinical approaches, particularly emphasizing early screening for anemia and inflammation in younger Black populations.