Erectile dysfunction is the
inability of a man to achieve or maintain an erection sufficient
enough for his, or his sexual partner's needs. It also goes by
the name 'impotence'.
Erectile dysfunction is a problem that most men will encounter at some time in
their lives. It is believed that half of all men in the United States between
the ages of 40 and 70 have experienced Erectile Dysfunction at some time. For
some people it is an occasional problem, for others, it occurs at such frequency
that they require medical intervention and advice. Erectile Dysfunction can bring
about psychological or sexual functioning problems
Approximately 10-20 million men experience complete Erectile
Dysfunction. Another 10 million experience partial dysfunction.
The majority of these men are over the age of 65.
Statistically 5% experience sexual dysfunction at the age of
40, this increases to 15-25% by the age of 65.
It is a frustrating condition that can have either a physiologic
or psychologic cause. It affects not only the individual but
also those around him in his family and work.
Impotence has been intensely studied over the past 20 years
and technologic advances have allowed a greater understanding
of the condition. It is known that the majority of cases have
a physical, not a psychological cause. The devasting effect on
the individual and those around him is better understood, but
most importantly, the condition is being successfully treated
in the majority of cases. |
