Erectile Dysfunction (also called Impotence or Problem having an erection) is the inability to develop or maintain erection of the penis during sexual activity. It can have psychological consequences. It is a common male disorder usually affecting older men that significantly impacts quality of life and well being. Erectile Dysfunction affects 50% of men older than 60 years of age. Younger men typically report a great degree of bother than older men which leads them to seek treatment at the earliest. Risk factors and co-morbid conditions for cardiac diseases like hypertension, diabetes, hyper-cholesterolemia, work related stress, depression and metabolic syndrome contribute to ED. Lifestyle factors including smoking, obesity and lack of exercise are also significant predictors of ED.
Note: ED is medical abbreviation for Erectile Dysfunction. ED is not a disease, it is a medical condition. There are many physical and psychological problems that cause ED.