Who is more likely to get erectile dysfunction?

Erectile dysfunction (ED) is a condition that impacts millions of men worldwide, making it difficult to achieve and maintain an erection during sexual activity. While it is a common issue, many men may be unaware that they are at risk of developing ED. Certain risk factors increase the likelihood of developing this condition. In this article, we will explore who is prone to erectile dysfunction.

Age growth

Several studies indicate that age is a significant risk factor for erectile dysfunction. A survey conducted by the National Institutes of Health found the incidence of ED increased substantially with age, affecting over 52% of men aged 40-70, with the highest prevalence (70%) of ED occurring in men aged 70 years or older.

Age-related physiological changes can lead to reduced blood flow to the penis, which is a common cause of ED in older men. In a study published in the Journal of Sexual Medicine, researchers measured the penis’s blood flow velocity and found that older men had reduced blood flow, linked to a higher prevalence of ED.

Another study published in the journal Age and Ageing reported that a decrease in testosterone levels that occurs with aging could contribute to ED in older men. They found that a quarter of men aged 70 and above had low testosterone levels, which could reduce libido and contribute to ED.

Furthermore, a systematic review published by the International Journal of Clinical Practice found that age was an independent predictor for ED, with the prevalence of ED increasing from 2% in men under 40 years to 86% in men 80 years and older.

As men age, they are also more likely to develop underlying medical conditions such as diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, and hypertension. These health conditions can damage blood vessels and cause nerve damage, leading to decreased blood flow to the penis over time, which is a significant contributor to ED. According to a study published in the Journal of Sexual Medicine, 80% of men with diabetes experience some degree of ED during their lifetime.

Multiple studies suggest that ED, prevalence increases with age, and the condition is a common problem for men as they get older. Age-related physiological changes, hormonal imbalances, and underlying medical conditions can contribute to ED in older men.

Bad lifestyle

Lifestyle factors such as smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, poor diet, and lack of physical activity have a significant impact on erectile dysfunction. Multiple studies have demonstrated the link between these lifestyle factors and the development of ED:

Smoking: Smoking is a significant contributor to ED, even in young men. Nicotine and other chemicals in tobacco products can damage blood vessels and reduce blood flow to the penis, which makes it difficult to achieve an erection. A study published in the Journal of Sexual Medicine found that smoking increased the risk of ED by 86% compared to non-smokers.
Alcohol: While a moderate intake of alcohol may have a positive impact on sexual function, excessive alcohol consumption can lead to ED. Drinking in excess can affect the nervous system, reduce testosterone levels, and cause dehydration, making it harder to achieve and maintain an erection. A study published in the Journal of Sexual Medicine found that men with alcohol addiction were far more likely to experience ED compared to non-drinkers or moderate drinkers.
Diet: Poor diet high in saturated fats, sugar, and processed foods contributes to ED. Such diets can cause cardiovascular disease, obesity, and metabolic syndrome, all of which could lead to ED. A study published in the International Journal of Impotence Research found that men with erectile dysfunction had lower intakes of fruits and vegetables, and higher intakes of meat, than men without ED.
Physical inactivity: Lack of physical activity can lead to weight gain and obesity, which increases the risk for ED. Regular exercise promotes healthy blood circulation and overall well-being, which is essential to good sexual health. In a study published in the Journal of Sexual Medicine, researchers found that men who exercised regularly had a 40% lower risk of ED compared to those who didn’t exercise.

Long-term illness

Several medical conditions are known to cause or contribute to erectile dysfunction. These include diabetes, cardiovascular disease, hypertension, multiple sclerosis, Parkinson’s disease, and prostate cancer:

Diabetes: Diabetes is known to cause damage to blood vessels and nerves, which can result in decreased blood flow to the penis and reduced sensation. A study published in the Journal of Sexual Medicine found that nearly half of men with diabetes had ED symptoms, and they were three times more likely to experience ED compared to men without diabetes.
Cardiovascular disease: Cardiovascular disease affects the blood vessels and heart and is known to cause ED. In a study published in the International Journal of Impotence Research, it was found that men with a history of heart disease had a significantly higher risk of ED.
Hypertension: High blood pressure can cause damage to the arteries and decrease blood flow to the penis. A study published in the Journal of Hypertension found that men with hypertension had a higher risk of ED compared to men without hypertension.
Multiple Sclerosis: Multiple Sclerosis (MS) is a neurological disease that affects the central nervous system, including the nerves that control erections. A study published in the Journal of Sexual Medicine found that 91% of men with MS had erectile dysfunction.
Parkinson’s Disease: Parkinson’s disease is a progressive neurological disorder that affects movement and is also known to cause ED. A study published in the Journal of Sexual Medicine found that 60% of men with Parkinson’s disease had experienced ED.
Prostate Cancer: Treatment of prostate cancer, particularly surgery, and radiation therapy, can cause ED. In a study published in the Journal of Clinical Oncology, it was found that nearly half of all men treated for prostate cancer experienced ED.

Long-term psychological stress

Psychological factors, such as stress, anxiety, and depression, can have a significant impact on erectile dysfunction. These factors can contribute to reduced libido, performance anxiety, and other issues that may make it difficult to get or maintain an erection. A number of studies have been conducted on this subject, with some compelling findings:

Stress: Chronic stress can lead to high levels of cortisol, a hormone that can inhibit the production of testosterone, which is crucial for strong erections. A study published in the International Journal of Impotence Research found that men who reported high levels of stress were more likely to experience ED.
Anxiety: Performance anxiety and general anxiety can lead to ED. According to a study published in the Journal of Sexual Medicine, men with anxiety were significantly more likely to have ED.
Depression: Depression is a mood disorder that affects many aspects of life, including sexual function. A study published in the Journal of Sexual Medicine found that men with depression were significantly more likely to have ED, and the severity of depression was also linked with ED symptoms.
Sexual Trauma: Sexual abuse and trauma can also lead to ED. A study published in the Journal of Sexual Medicine found that men who experienced sexual trauma were more likely to have ED.

Effects of taking drugs

Certain medications can contribute to or cause erectile dysfunction. For example, medication for high blood pressure, depression, anxiety, and even allergies has been known to cause ED.

Antidepressants: A study published in the Journal of Sexual Medicine found that men taking antidepressants were two to three times more likely to have ED than men not taking antidepressants. In particular, selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), a type of antidepressant, were associated with a higher risk of ED.

Antihypertensives: Medications used to treat high blood pressure (antihypertensives) are known to contribute to ED. A study published in the Journal of Hypertension found that men taking antihypertensives had a significantly higher risk of ED than men not taking antihypertensives.

Allergy medications: Antihistamines and other medications used to treat allergies have been known to cause ED. A study published in the Journal of Sexual Medicine found that men taking antihistamines had twice the risk of ED compared to men not taking antihistamines.

Prostate Cancer medications: Medications used to treat prostate cancer can contribute to ED. A study published in the Journal of Clinical Oncology found that men treated with androgen deprivation therapy (ADT), a medication used in prostate cancer treatment, had a significantly higher risk of ED than men not treated with ADT.

Conclusion

Various factors increase the likelihood of developing ED. Age, lifestyle factors, medical conditions, psychological factors, and medication use are all associated with the condition. Being aware of these risk factors can help men take preventive measures and seek treatment when necessary. Furthermore, reducing or eliminating these risk factors can help prevent ED from developing. If you or someone you know is experiencing ED symptoms, it is essential to seek medical advice to better understand and manage this condition.