Epidemiology

Epidemiological data have shown a high prevalence of erectile dysfunction (ED) worldwide, but estimations are difficult due to the range of definitions and screening tests for ED used.[5] ​In the US, some degree of erectile difficulty is reported by half of men ages 40 to 70 years with an incidence rate of around 26 cases per 1000 man-years.​[6]​​​​[7]

The incidence and prevalence rates of ED increases with age.[5] However, one study showed that one in four patients seeking first medical help for new onset ED was younger than 40 years.[8]​ In one study of young (18 to 31 years) sexually active men, mild erectile dysfunction reported in 11.3% and 2.9% reported moderate-to-severe erectile dysfunction.[9]

Race variation has been observed, in that Hispanic men were nearly twice as likely to have ED and develop the condition at younger ages.[10]​​ However, this finding is not consistently supported.[11]

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