How common is erectile dysfunction (ED)?

It may seem that because ED is not frequently talked about that it is not a common condition.
The exact prevalence of ED is difficult to determine, as it is expected that the condition is underdiagnosed due to reluctance of those experiencing ED to come forward and speak with their healthcare professional.

However, it is expected that 52% of men between the ages of 40 and 70 years old suffer from ED.^[1] The prevalence of ED increases with age. At the age of 40, around 40% of men are expected to have ED and this rises to 70% in men over 70.^[1]

The prevalence of ED is growing

In part due to the growing aging population in which ED is most common, the prevalence of ED is rising

In 1995, there was ~152 million men affected worldwide^[2]
This number is predicted to grow to 322 million by 2025^[2]

ED is experienced across age groups, not just by older men

ED is experienced across age groups.

Up to 30% of young men experience ED, the least likely group to seek treatment.^[3-4]

Prevalence is independent of ethnicity and geography, meaning a large pool of men globally are in need of support with the condition.^[5]

Related Content

What is erectile dysfunction?

When should I see a doctor?

References

1. Sooriyamoorthy & Leslie. Erectile dysfunction. StatPearls. Accessed: May 2022.
2. Ayta, I A et al. BJU international.1999: 50-6.
3. Crisp & Matiske. Sex Dev 2021;15:187–212.
4. Shabsigh, BJU Int. 2004 Nov;94(7):1055-59.
5. Shabsigh R. 2nd Edition. Totowa, NJ: Humana Press; 2006. Epidemiology of Erectile Dysfunction. In: Mulcahy JJ (ed) Male Sexual Function. A Guide to Clin Manag;pp 47–59.