DISEASE SCANNER

Global Incurable Diseases Tracker

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Urologic Condition

Erectile Dysfunction (ED)

MODERATE

The consistent inability to achieve or maintain an erection sufficient for satisfactory sexual performance. Affects approximately 50% of men aged 40-70. Often an early indicator of cardiovascular disease. Can significantly impact quality of life and relationships.

Global Affected

150.0M

Countries

111

Symptoms

Difficulty getting an erection
Difficulty maintaining an erection
Reduced sexual desire
Anxiety about sexual performance
Reduced rigidity of erections
Premature ejaculation (associated)
Delayed ejaculation (associated)

Treatment Options

PDE5 inhibitors (sildenafil, tadalafil)
Testosterone replacement
Alprostadil injections
Alprostadil urethral suppository
Vacuum erection devices
Penile implants
Psychological counseling
Lifestyle modifications
Low-intensity shockwave therapy

Risk Factors

1Age over 50
2Cardiovascular disease
3Diabetes
4Hypertension
5High cholesterol
6Obesity
7Smoking
8Alcohol abuse
9Sedentary lifestyle
10Depression/anxiety
11Certain medications
12Prostate surgery

Diagnostic Methods

  • 1Medical and sexual history
  • 2Physical examination
  • 3Blood tests (testosterone, glucose, lipids)
  • 4Nocturnal penile tumescence testing
  • 5Penile Doppler ultrasound
  • 6Psychological assessment
  • 7Cardiovascular risk assessment

Prognosis

Excellent prognosis with treatment; 70-80% respond to PDE5 inhibitors. Underlying cardiovascular disease must be addressed. Lifestyle modifications improve outcomes. Psychological component often responds to counseling. Penile implants have 90% satisfaction rate.

Prevention

  • Maintain healthy weight
  • Regular exercise
  • Don't smoke
  • Limit alcohol
  • Manage chronic diseases
  • Regular health screenings
  • Stress management
  • Open communication with partner

Research Status

PDE5 inhibitors (sildenafil/Viagra, tadalafil/Cialis, vardenafil, avanafil) are first-line and highly effective. Testosterone replacement for hypogonadal men. Alprostadil injections or suppositories for non-responders. Low-intensity shockwave therapy emerging. Penile implants for refractory cases. Stem cell and gene therapy research ongoing.

Sources

  • https://www.niddk.nih.gov/health-information/urologic-diseases/erectile-dysfunction
  • https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/erectile-dysfunction/symptoms-causes/syc-20355776
  • https://www.hematology.org/education/patients
  • https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books
  • https://rarediseases.org/rare-diseases

Medical Disclaimer

This information is for educational purposes only. Always consult healthcare professionals for medical advice, diagnosis, and treatment.