Overview of Erectile Dysfunction in Men Aged 40 and Older
Experts note that a sizable portion of men between 40 and 70 experience symptoms of erectile dysfunction, with estimates around 50 to 52 percent. This reflects a tendency for erectile function to decline with age, though the onset and severity vary from person to person.
Age is identified as a key factor in recent research, but the impact differs: some men notice an earlier decrease in function, others later, and for some the change is mild while for others it is more pronounced.
There are both psychological and physical contributors. A psychological barrier can arise from past experiences, guilt, anxiety, or depression, which can impair sexual performance. Organic factors also play a role, including cardiovascular disease, especially atherosclerosis and hypertension, diabetes, and the influence of lifestyle choices such as smoking or excessive alcohol use.
Another mechanism is venous leakage, where blood briefly reaches the penis but does not remain there long enough to sustain an erection. Inflammatory conditions of the genitourinary tract can also significantly affect sexual function.
erectile dysfunction may occur after pelvic surgeries, such as treatments for colorectal cancer or prostate cancer. Changes in spinal health, including intervertebral disc issues that affect the lumbar spine, can also impact erections because the nerves and centers controlling erection are connected along the spinal cord.
Experts emphasize that adopting a healthier lifestyle can help preserve erectile function for as long as possible, underscoring the link between overall health and sexual wellness.
Further information is available about conditions that can develop in men over 40, how these conditions are diagnosed, and whether it is possible to maintain sexual potency throughout life .
A note on historical approaches to treatment suggests that there are various methods to address erection concerns, and ongoing medical evaluation is important for choosing appropriate options.