Erectile Dysfunction Awareness is Relatively Low, As Revealed By European Survey

European Association of Urology (EAU) survey 3032 men and women from different age groups, ranging from 20 to 70 reveals that erectile dysfunction awareness is alarmingly low. Majority of the respondents do not know about ED, and one in four has never even heard of any of the seven most common treatments for ED.

This survey, supported by an educational grant of Boston Scientific, was done by EAU for its annual Urology Week (September 21-25, 2020). Members of the public from Spain, France, Germany and the UK were asked about their knowledge of ED.

Erectile dysfunction (ED) is the inability to achieve and sustain an erection that can make sexual intercourse satisfying. According to Professor Christopher Chapple, Secretary General of the EAU, ED is a common male medical condition which is why it is surprising that majority of respondents are not aware of it. He also mentioned that the risk of having ED increases with age, but it can affect all men regardless of their ages and ethnicities.

(Photo: pixabay)

LEARN MORE: 4-Year-Old Canadian Boy Is Back Home After Completing Cancer Treatments in Boston

What Happens If You Have ED?

Most men can experience trouble with erection from time to time, this does not mean that it entails treatment or that you have erectile dysfunction. However, if this happens frequently, it may cause relationship problems and self-esteem issues which may need treatment.

Because ED is a common medical condition, there should be no taboo surrounding it. Communication is the key to break down this social taboo. Professor Chapple said that ED is always treatable, but majority of German people expressed being uncomfortable with opening up about it and is the reason for not seeking professional help.

Because problems with erection may also be a sign of an underlying health condition, identifying the cause can be enough to treat ED. 

During male sexual arousal, there is an increased blood flow to the penis and involves a complex process where the brain, hormones, emotions, nerves, muscles and blood vessels all work together. If there is any issue with any of these, it may result to erectile dysfunction. Psychological factors such as stress and other mental health concerns can also contribute or worsen erectile dysfunction.

The best way to prevent this condition is by promoting a healthy lifestyle and management of any underlying health conditions that may cause ED.

Limited Knowledge Surrounding ED

Based on the study conducted, one in four respondents (26%) has never heard of any of the treatments for ED as listed in the survey such as medication, sexual education and relationship therapy. Because of this limited knowledge surrounding ED, only 50% of UK people think ED is treatable.

Mulitple options exist for people who want to treat ED naturally.

But you should keep in mind that the treatment plan will vary depending on the severity of your condition or whether it is caused by a specific health condition. 

Early detection of ED should warrant a visit to your doctor in order to discuss the best treatment for you and identify the underlying causes that are causing the symptoms.

READ ABOUT: New Drug Reduces Breast Cancer Recurrence by 25%, First in 20 Years

Check out more news and information on Erectile Dysfunction on MD News Daily.