Is erectile dysfunction common?

Experts generally agree that erectile dysfunction (ED) is a common condition, with its likelihood increasing as men age. Some studies highlight ED as the most prevalent form of sexual dysfunction among men.

However, estimates regarding its prevalence vary significantly. A 2018 review suggested that ED affects roughly one-third of men, while a 2019 review reported global prevalence rates ranging from 3% to 76.5%.

Although the risk of ED rises with age, younger men can also experience it. Research published in the Journal of Sexual Medicine revealed that approximately 26% of men under 40 were affected by ED.

Despite consensus on its prevalence, measuring ED in large populations is challenging. This difficulty may stem from varying definitions used by researchers and healthcare professionals to determine how frequently erection issues must occur to qualify as ED.