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Erectile dysfunction, sometimes called "impotence", is the repeated inability to get or keep an erection firm enough for sexual intercourse. The word "impotence" may also be used to describe other problems that interfere with sexual intercourse and reproduction, such as lack of sexual desire and problems with ejaculation or orgasm. Using the term erectile dysfunction makes it clear that those other problems are not involved. 
Erectile dysfunction is strongly age related and usually has a physical cause. As many as 30 million men may be affected in the USA. While there is an estimated prevalence across all ages of about 10% (making erectile dysfunction common), the prevalence rises to over 50% in men between 50 and 70 years of age, though it is not an inevitable consequence of normal ageing. It is also associated with a number of organic disorders and diseases. In diabetes, for instance, it occurs in up to 40% of men. But erectile dysfunction may also occur with cardiovascular disorders, neurological disorders, after pelvic surgery or trauma, and as a consequence of pharmacological treatments of a number of diseases. |
