How common is erectile dysfunction (ED)?

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Erectile dysfunction (ED) affects an estimated 15 million to 30 million, depending on the definition used. ED can be a total inability to achieve erection, an inconsistent ability to do so, or a tendency to sustain only brief erections. These variations make defining ED and estimating its incidence difficult.

Multiple Sclerosis Foundation

Erectile dysfunction (ED) is common. According to a Johns Hopkins study, nearly 20 percent of American men are affected. Among men aged 40 through 70, the numbers climb to 50 percent. Though the condition is highly treatable, only 10 to 15 percent of those experiencing ED seek medical solutions.

Madeleine M. Castellanos, MD on behalf of Good In Bed

Psychiatry

Erectile problems are actually incredibly common: According to the results of the Global Better Sex Survey, published in the Journal of Sexual Medicine, 65 percent of men aren't satisfied with the quality of erections (and neither are 63 percent of women).

Univ. of Nev. School of Medicine, Family Medicine

Erectile dysfunction is extremely common as men age. In a recent survey, 52% of men ages 40 to 70 are afflicted by this disease. It can be associated with heart disease and diabetes. However, all is not lost, and if you have ED, consult your doctor because there are different medications that may be able to help you.

Dr. Mehmet Oz, MD

Cardiology (Cardiovascular Disease)

Thanks to Viagra and her relatives, which increase the duration of the effect of nitric oxide, erectile dysfunction is no longer an in-the-closet, never-to-be-talked-about disorder.

Clinically defined as the consistent inability to attain an erection sufficient for sexual activity, erectile dysfunction (ED) hits about 50 percent of men ages 40 to 70 and 70 percent of men older than 70. Suffice it to say that most aging men are going to have at least some experience with losing a little pulp in their juice.

We should also note that getting older isn't all bad when it comes to erection issues, since it does mean for most men that it takes a little longer to ejaculate.

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Important: This content reflects information from various individuals and organizations and may offer alternative or opposing points of view. It should not be used for medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. As always, you should consult with your healthcare provider about your specific health needs.

Erectile Dysfunction

Erectile dysfunction is not a life-threatening condition but could be a symptom of something more serious, like heart disease, hypertension, or diabetes. If you are having trouble getting an erection of maintaining an erection, speak to your doctor and discuss your treatment options. Erectile dysfunction is a delicate subject to discuss for many men but stress from ED can cause the condition to worsen. Learn more about erectile dysfunction from our experts.

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