Get it up with a healthy lifestyle
Dr Andrew Binns,

What is erectile dysfunction (ED)?


ED is the persistent inability to achieve and maintain an erection sufficient for satisfactory sexual performance.

For generations diminished sexual function for men has been accepted as part of the ageing process. However there is now not only effective treatment for this condition, but new research has discovered the causes of the problem. This opens the way for preventative measures to at least delay the onset and progression of ED.

Reduce your risk of developing ED

  • Avoid gaining weight
  • Increase physical activity
  • Spend less time watching TV
  • Do not smoke
  • Drink in moderation


How common is ED?


Figures from the Massachusetts Male Aging Study suggested that more than half of men aged 40-70 years had ED and that the rate increased with increasing age.
Another recent study looked at 31,000 male health professionals in the US aged 53-90 years. It found about 33% had ED.

The causes of ED


The study found that obesity was associated with a higher relative risk of ED. Being physically active was associated with a lower risk.

Smoking, alcohol consumption and television viewing time were also found to be associated with an increased prevalence of ED. Men who had no chronic medical conditions and had healthy lifestyles had the lowest incidence.

A large percentage of men with ED have impaired blood flow to the penis, which is commonly associated with high blood pressure, diabetes, blocked coronary arteries and blocked arteries in the legs.

Other causes of ED include psychological causes such as performance anxiety and depression, as well as chronic illnesses. Some medications including commonly prescribed blood pressure tablets and antidepressants can also cause ED. Major surgery, particularly prostate surgery for cancer, can also be a cause.

Preventing and treating ED


Men aged 40 and over who don’t have this problem and want to avoid it in later life need to address lifestyle issues and make improvements if needed.
Men who already have ED can also modify their lifestyles, as well as their cardiovascular risk factors. This can be sorted out by a visit to your GP.

For men who have persisting problems after all risk and causative issues have been dealt with, there are now some effective medications and other options for treatment that can dramatically improve ED and overall quality of life. However, commonly used ED medications such as Viagra, Cialis and Levitra need to be used under medical supervision and should not be used by those who have heart pain (angina) and are on nitrates. Advice from a GP is essential before taking these medications. For those who don’t get a response to these medications there are other options to treat ED.