[Epidemiology and physiopathology of erectile dysfunction]

Erectile dysfunction (ED) is a common condition with a significant deleterious effect on the quality of life. The prevalence rate of ED is about 20-45% and its incidence in western countries has been evaluated from 25 to 30 cases per 1000 person year. Risk factors of ED are ageing, diabetes, and cardiovascular, uro-genital, psychiatric and any chronic diseases. Smoking, hormonal factors and some drugs may be associated with ED. Modifications of risk factors must be initiated before the age of 50 to prevent ED occurrence. Two thirds of men with ED report embarrassment when discussing this problem with a physician and less than 25% ask for medical advice. As a symptom of endothelial dysfunction, ED may be considered a premonitory sign of coronary or peripheral vascular disease and diabetes.