The prevalence of male erectile dysfunction in Germany today and in the future

Purpose: The aim of the present study was to evaluate the epidemiology and future changing of male sexuality in Germany, and the proportion of men who need this type of medical treatment. Material and Methods: The "Kolner Fragebogen zur Erfassung der erektilen Dysfunktion" (KEED) was mailed to a representative population sample of 8000 men 30 to 80 years of age in the district of Cologne. These results were transferred to the data of the population development. Results: The response included 4489 evaluable replies (56.1%). 96.0% (youngest age group) to 71.3% (oldest group) reported on regular sexual activity. 31.5% to 44% of the responders were dissatisfied with their current sex life. The prevalence of ED was 19.2% (sickened), with a steep age-related increase (2.3-53.4%) and a high comorbidity of ED with hypertension, diabetes, pelvic surgery and "lower urinary tract symptoms". The necessity of treatment (defined by co-occurrence of ED and dissatisfaction with sex life), was 6.9%. It can be projected that in the year 2030 the number of men with erectile dysfunction will raise up to 5.65 Mio. and 1.8 Mio. men will require treatment. With 14.5% (sickened) resp. 4.2% (patients) shares of all persons in work, a distinct greater number of men concerning about sexual disorders will be treated in 2035. Conclusions: Today the "Cologne 8000 Men Survey" is the world-wide largest epidemiologic poll pertaining to the prevalence of masculine sexual and micturation disorders. We were able to show that the amount of men seeking ED-therapy was estimated too high. Although, the changing of the age structure and the related increase of prevalence numbers, will be used by the health insurances to deny medical support.