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Stigma, embarrassment and cultural misconceptions are preventing many men from openly discussing erectile dysfunction and seeking medical attention, health experts have warned.
The concern emerged during a street awareness exercise organised by global healthcare company, Viatris, in Lagos as part of its EmpowerED for Life campaign to encourage open conversations about men’s sexual health.
The exercise, led by medical doctor and health educator, Dr Damian Avar, popularly known as Sabi Doctor, involved interviews with 25 men and women at Ikeja City Mall and The Palms Mall.
Responses highlighted varying levels of public awareness about erectile dysfunction, with some participants recognising it as a common and treatable medical condition, while others pointed to the stigma, pride and embarrassment that often prevent men from discussing their symptoms.
Avar said erectile dysfunction should be treated as a medical condition deserving attention rather than judgment, warning that some men ignore symptoms because they are uncomfortable discussing their sexual health.
“ED is a health condition that deserves genuine attention, not judgment,” he said, stressing that early medical assessment could help identify underlying health concerns and improve treatment outcomes.
He added that erectile dysfunction could sometimes serve as an early indicator of cardiovascular disease, making it important for men experiencing symptoms to seek professional medical advice.
Global projections suggest that more than 320 million men worldwide are affected by erectile dysfunction, with developing regions expected to record significant increases.
Despite its prevalence, the condition remains underreported, partly because of cultural attitudes and limited conversations about men’s health.
Associate Vice President, Commercial, Viatris, Sushil Kumar Mishra, said taking awareness beyond hospitals and clinics was necessary to encourage more people to discuss the condition.
“We wanted to shift this conversation from the confines of clinics into everyday spaces, because awareness truly begins here,” Mishra said.
He noted that many men silently struggled with the condition, which could affect their confidence, relationships and emotional well-being.
One of the participants in the street interviews said open discussions involving healthcare professionals could help reduce the shame associated with erectile dysfunction and encourage men to seek help early.
The participant added that understanding the condition as a medical issue rather than something to be ashamed of could make a difference in how men respond to symptoms.
The EmpowerED for Life campaign operates in six African countries: Nigeria, Ghana, Kenya, Côte d’Ivoire, Senegal and South Africa.
The initiative combines community outreach, digital storytelling and public education to address misconceptions about erectile dysfunction and empower men to seek appropriate care without shame or fear.
Health professionals advise men experiencing symptoms to consult qualified healthcare providers for proper assessment and treatment rather than rely on misinformation or unverified remedies.
