PUTRAJAYA, May 20 — Two out of three Malaysian men are at risk of erectile dysfunction (ED), Deputy Health Minister Datuk Lukanisman Awang Sauni revealed today.
Based on the 2019 National Health and Morbidity Survey (NHMS), 31.6 per cent of Malaysian men aged 18 and above were found to have moderate to severe levels of ED.
“Erectile dysfunction is a condition that is rarely discussed, but it is becoming a serious issue among Malaysian men.
“Data shows that 69.5 per cent of men aged 40 and above are currently experiencing or have experienced ED,” he told the press after launching the Clinical Practice Guidelines (CPG) for the Management of Erectile Dysfunction today.
ED is defined as the inability to achieve or maintain an erection sufficient for satisfactory sexual performance.
Lukanisman said the CPG was developed to ensure that ED patients receive the best possible care from healthcare practitioners equipped with relevant knowledge and skills, which is in line with the recommendations provided in the guidelines.
“This CPG was developed over the course of several years and has now been shared with clinical professionals, universities and associations as a reference for delivering comprehensive treatment for ED,” he said.
The deputy minister also encouraged individuals suffering from ED to seek treatment at Health Ministry (MOH) facilities promptly, noting that nearly 70 per cent of ED cases are believed to be a contributing factor in divorces.
“Men should not feel ashamed, and women also play an important role in learning about ED and supporting their partners in seeking help,” Lukanisman said.
Meanwhile, he said the MOH, via the Pharmaceutical Services Division, is currently working with e-commerce platforms including Shopee, Lazada, and TikTok to monitor and restrict the sale of ED-related medications.
“I want to emphasise that ED is a medical condition that should be treated just like diabetes, high blood pressure or high cholesterol.
“Do not treat medications (sold online) as tools to enhance sexual performance or stamina,” Lukanisman said.
— Bernama
