When a man cannot achieve an erection or after he is erect cannot maintain the erection in order to fulfill his sexual needs, as well as the sexual needs of his partner, then he is considered to suffer from erectile dysfunction. This problem affects most men at some point in their life, but as long as it does not occur on a regular basis it is not usually a cause for concern.

However, there is a small percentage of men that suffer from erectile dysfunction chronically. This is called impotence. There are other men who experience problems with erection on a regular basis and only have semi erections or erections that are short-lived. Men take pride in their virility and when they suffer erection problems this can cause serious problems with their self esteem. Not to mention many men suffering from this problem experience emotional problems and even problems with their relationships. Fortunately for these men this is not a life sentence and most of the time the cause can easily be treated. Just because a man is getting older does not mean he should live with, and accept, erectile dysfunction. Being embarrassed to go to the doctor is not a good excuse, either, because many men suffer from this and doctors are accustomed to dealing with the situation in a discreet and respectful manner.

Who is Affected?

Erectile dysfunction has a wide definition and includes men who are impotent as well as those who cannot maintain an erection, those who have semi erections, and even those who have erections for a short period of time. Since the definition includes so many different erectile situations estimating the amount of men actually affected is a challenge. However, it is estimated that as many as 30 million American men suffer from this problem and many millions more worldwide.

Most often men are affected as they age. For example, chronic problems with erection affects as many as 25% of men by the time they turn 65. However, men in their 40s are only affected 5% of the time. Younger men are affected on a much less frequent basis. As many as 50% of men between 40 and 70 experience some degree of erectile dysfunction on a regular basis.

Fortunately, men who experience erectile dysfunction usually have a disease that causes it. Diabetes, arteriosclerosis, kidney disease, and even alcoholism account for up to 70% of the cases of ED. As many as 50% of men with diabetes will suffer from ED and another 10-20% of men experience erection problems due to depression, stress, and anxiety. These percentages show that ED is treatable, as long as men visit their health care provider.

While erectile dysfunction is frequently a source of embarrassment and shame for men, it shouldn't be. Treatment options are available and men can get back to their normal sexual activity again with plenty of confidence and high self esteem.