Erectile dysfunction in young men: a sentinel marker for emerging Non-Communicable Diseases

We are seeing many diseases in younger people that were previously associated with older adults, and erectile dysfunction is now one of them. Previously linked with the elderly, it has now become an indicator of potential metabolic conditions and even cardiovascular events. Given its increasing prevalence, its potential role as a predictor of comorbid conditions, and its possibe impact on fertility, it is perhaps high time that insurers, funders and stakeholders consider including both its diagnosis as well as treatment in their health policy coverage. Encouraging primary care providers to play an active role in screening and providing initial treatment might be a way forward.

Erectile dysfunction; Men’s health; Non-communicable diseases; Insurance coverage

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