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Author: Admin | 2025-04-28
Reviewed by Dr Bhavini ShahAlso known as impotence, erectile dysfunction (ED) is defined as the inability to get and maintain an erection sufficient for sex. The condition is very common, particularly as men age. Our research collates the most recent statistics on erectile dysfunction and Viagra (the brand name for sildenafil). We surveyed 500 adult men and found that:50% of men have experienced some form of erectile dysfunction before. Two in five men (40%) would not feel comfortable seeking help for ED. Four in five men (82%) said that ED should be talked about more openly. “Erectile dysfunction is incredibly common and it’s important that men know they are not alone in dealing with this problem.” - Dr Bhavini ShahHow common is erectile dysfunction?Erectile dysfunction affects up to one in five men in the UK, roughly 4.3 million. This number is under some dispute as true ED prevalence is likely to be underestimated due to under-reporting to healthcare professionals. Other studies suggest that two-fifths (41%) of UK men suffer from ED. In 1995, it is estimated that 152 million men suffered from ED globally.In 2025, it is expected that 322 million men will be suffering from ED, more than double that of 30 years ago. Age is the variable most strongly associated with ED. Roughly half of men between the ages of 40 and 70 will experience ED to some degree. 40% of men will be affected by ED by the age of 4070% of men will be affected by ED by the age of 70. The NHS saw almost 3.5 million prescriptions for the ED treatment Viagra in England between September 2023 and August 2024. That’s 25.5 million pills! In terms of cost to the NHS, it’s estimated that the service spent £4.8 million on Viagra in this time. What are the causes?There isn’t one singular cause for ED. There are lots of reasons why you may not be able to achieve or maintain an erection. It is suggested that 90% of men with ED have at least one underlying physical cause for their problem. For the remaining 10%, ED has a psychological cause. Cardiovascular disease is the underlying cause in 40% of cases.Diabetes is the underlying cause in 33% of cases.Hormonal issues (e.g., low testosterone) and certain medications (including antidepressants and recreational drugs) and the underlying cause in 11% of cases.Neurological disorders are the underlying cause in 10% of cases.Pelvic surgery or trauma is the underlying cause in 3-5% of cases.Anatomical issues (e.g., tight foreskin or curved penis) are the underlying cause in 1-3% of cases.Certain health conditions can also increase your chances of experiencing ED. Three quarters (76%) of men who are treated for prostate cancer experience ED, Three quarters (75%) of men suffering from coronary artery disease experience ED. Erectile dysfunction is also thought to occur in 15-25% of people who suffer from a serious head injury. Undiagnosed diabetes is up to three times (28%) more likely in men with ED. Obesity can increase your chances
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