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Sex

25th Nov 2021

One in five young men suffer from erectile dysfunction

Kieran Galpin

Erectile Dysfunction

Erectile Dysfunction undoubtedly affects people you know

Though erectile dysfunction (ED) is a condition often synonymous with older men, a study has revealed that one in five young gents also suffer from it.

LloydsPharmacy Online Doctor partnered with the Time to Raise It movement to promote open and honest discussion around erection problems (EPs). By collating various studies from across the UK, the campaign was able to build a solid presentation of men’s penile issues.

But what qualifies as an erectile problem?

The campaign states that: “Erection problems, in simple terms, is when your penis doesn’t get or stay erect when you’d like it to. The causes of this can be physical or psychological. It can happen infrequently or every time you try to perform.

“While there are preventative measures you can take to curb problems with erections, like eating a healthy diet and making sure to exercise regularly, sometimes medical attention may be needed if you find the problem persists.”

Surveying over 5,000 participants, one study centred around the topic of ED and highlighted interesting areas that aren’t often spoken about when it comes to standing to attention.

They found that one in four men suffering from ED is typically below the age of 34, while over 50 per cent are younger than 54.

Similarly, the campaign found that 22 per cent of young men (those between 25 and 34) suffer from erectile problems, while 26 per cent of 65-74-year-olds also suffer.

With the percentages so close to one another, why isn’t this being talked about more?

“Occasional EPs are nothing to worry about. However, regular EPs may be caused by physical health or emotional problems. There are a variety of factors which can cause erectile problems, including: stress, tiredness, anxiety, or drinking too much alcohol,” says Dr Sameer Sanghvi, Clinical Technology Lead at LloydsPharmacy Online Doctor.

The doctor continued: “EPs are not as big a problem as people make them out to be. There is a stigma attached to EPs in public discourse, but there need not be. EPs are common. It is time to raise discussion about the issue of raising it.”

So what can you do?

Erectile issues are not something to be ashamed about since they affect an enormous amount of people. If one in five men suffer from it, then you most likely know numerous people going through a similar situation.

Speak to your GP about the issue. LloydsPharmacy Online Doctor also recommends some lifestyle changes or perhaps medication to help get you back in fighting shape.

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