A recent health survey reveals that approximately one in ten young men in Nairobi is experiencing erectile dysfunction (ED), a condition characterized by difficulty achieving or maintaining an erection sufficient for sexual intercourse.

Researchers from the Kenya Medical Research Institute (Kemri) highlight that ED is not exclusive to older men, but is also prevalent among younger urban residents in Nairobi.

Erectile dysfunction has various potential causes, including physical conditions like cardiovascular disease, diabetes, obesity, and hormonal imbalances, as well as psychological factors such as stress, anxiety, and depression.

Health experts attribute the rising incidents of ED among younger men to lifestyle trends in cities, including sedentary behavior, poor dietary habits, alcohol use, and increasing stress.

Globally, ED is a significant public health concern, with an estimated 322 million men worldwide expected to be affected by 2025, driven by aging populations and rising non-communicable diseases.

In Kenya, awareness around ED has grown, with more men seeking medical help for sexual health issues.

Urologists link this trend to lifestyle influences such as diet, inactivity, and mental health pressures.

Despite its prevalence, ED often goes unreported and untreated due to social stigma surrounding male sexual health in Kenyan communities.

Cultural taboos discourage open discussion or seeking professional care, leading many men to suffer in silence or self-medicate with unregulated remedies.

Treatments for ED vary depending on the underlying cause, including lifestyle changes, counseling, medications, and surgical options.

Healthcare providers emphasize the importance of addressing ED as a potential indicator of underlying health issues, encouraging men to seek medical help without fear of stigma or judgment.