Addressing Erectile Dysfunction in Africa Through Awareness and Education
Viatris, a global healthcare company dedicated to empowering people worldwide to live healthier at every stage of life, has launched its EmpowerED for Life campaign across several key African countries. This initiative is focused on raising awareness about Erectile Dysfunction (ED), breaking the stigma associated with men’s health, and encouraging men to seek safe and professional medical support.
The EmpowerED for Life campaign aims to shift the narrative around ED from one of stigma to one of support. It encourages open conversations, promotes accurate information, and advocates for early diagnosis and proper treatment. The campaign was launched during a high-level pan-African webinar that brought together healthcare professionals, policymakers, media representatives, and men’s health advocates from across the continent. The event highlighted the widespread prevalence of ED and its significant impact on men’s physical, emotional, and relational well-being.
Erectile dysfunction is an increasing public health concern globally and often serves as an indicator of more serious health conditions such as diabetes, cardiovascular disease, hypertension, obesity, depression, and anxiety. According to an article published in the British Journal of Urology International (BJUI), it is estimated that 322 million men worldwide will be affected by ED by 2025. In Africa, the situation is particularly alarming.
In Nigeria, a 2016 study published in the Pan African Medical Journal reported community-based ED prevalence rates ranging from 43.8% to 58.9%. Hospital-based studies, especially among men with chronic conditions, show even higher rates between 41.5% and 65.8%. In Ghana, a 2010 study published in the International Journal of Impotence Research estimated that 65.9% of men from a young age are affected by ED. Alarmingly, it is estimated that 85% of men living with ED across Africa do not seek treatment.
Breaking the Stigma Around Men’s Health
At the launch of the campaign, Arvind Kanda, Head of India & Access Markets (ARVs, India, South Africa, and Sub-Saharan Africa) at Viatris, emphasized the importance of addressing the stigma surrounding ED. He stated, “The stigma surrounding erectile dysfunction often prevents men from seeking the medical attention they need and deserve. Through the EmpowerED for Life campaign, we are not only promoting awareness but also advocating for empathy, evidence-based care, and the normalization of open dialogue.”
The EmpowerED for Life campaign will be rolled out in Nigeria, Kenya, Ghana, Senegal, Côte d’Ivoire, and South Africa. It will use a multi-channel strategy that includes digital media, community outreach, professional education, and partnerships with healthcare providers. The goal is to reach men and their partners in both urban and rural settings. The campaign is built around four strategic pillars: Awareness, Education, Engagement, and Empowerment, with the ultimate aim of reducing stigma, improving access to care, and strengthening the role of healthcare professionals in men’s sexual health.
Expert Perspectives on the Importance of the Campaign
Dr. Nnabugwu Ikenna Ifeanyi, Associate Professor of Surgery at the College of Medicine, University of Nigeria Ituku-Ozalla Campus, highlighted the broader implications of ED. He said, “ED is not just a condition that affects a man’s ability to perform sexually; it often reflects underlying health problems and can severely impact self-esteem, relationships, and quality of life. Unfortunately, in many African societies, myths, cultural taboos, and a lack of access to trained specialists contribute to delayed diagnosis and treatment. Campaigns like EmpowerED for Life are vital to breaking these barriers and bringing men back into care.”
Tackling Unregulated Treatments and Promoting Health Equity
The EmpowerED for Life campaign also seeks to address the widespread use of unregulated treatments for ED, which pose serious risks to men’s health. By highlighting this issue, Viatris reaffirms its commitment to advancing health equity and empowering patients. The company emphasizes the importance of providing accurate information and ensuring that men have access to reliable healthcare solutions.
Through initiatives like EmpowerED for Life, Viatris is working to ensure that no man suffers in silence. By fostering open conversations and promoting evidence-based care, the campaign is paving the way for a healthier future for men across Africa.