RIYADH, 2 May 2008 — According to medical findings made public recently, 20 percent of Saudi men suffer from erectile dysfunction (ED).

“It has been evident from these medical studies that 20 percent of erectile dysfunction cases (in Saudi Arabia) are caused by psychological problems, while 80 percent are related to organic causes,” andrologist Dr. Yasser Al-Khayat told a press conference here on Wednesday.

According to the findings, the main causes for ED in Saudi Arabia were linked to diabetes, high blood pressure, smoking, obesity and lack of exercise. Of the cases found in Saudi Arabia, 50 percent were considered to be “serious” requiring immediate medical intervention.

“Scientific evidence has shown that erectile dysfunction in itself is not a disease in most cases...it is actually a sign of other bodily and psychological diseases which are more dangerous,” said Al-Khayat.

He added that 68 percent of patients worldwide who suffer from ED also suffered from high blood pressure, and that 50 percent of diabetes sufferers have ED.

Stress and psychological problems were other factors that relate directly to ED, he said. Studies have shown that 11 percent of people tested positively for ED worldwide experienced stress.

Al-Khayat warned people who experience ED against neglecting the problem, since it could be related to other symptoms such as artery problems related to the heart.

“People suffering from erectile dysfunction should immediately consult a specialist and not endanger their lives because of shyness or social stigma,” he said.

Al-Khayat added that currently medication, which can treat up to 95 percent of the cases, are quick solutions to the illness.

“These cures are provided through psychological treatment, hormone treatment, as well as taking tablets, such as Cialis, available in pharmacies,” he said. The drug, he said, is not affected by food consumption and patients need not worry about the time factor.

According to the UK-based Sexual Dysfunction Association, ED is very common and affects at least one in every 10 men in the UK.