Dr Abigail Gasu Acheampong, a certified nurse practitioner at Manner-Care Health Center in the U.S., has raised concerns over the rising cases of erectile dysfunction (ED) among Ghanaian men in their 20s and 30s.

In an exclusive interview with GhanaWeb on July 2, 2025, Dr Acheampong explained that while ED was traditionally linked to older men, it is now increasingly affecting the youth, driven by physical and psychological factors.

"Erectile dysfunction happens when blood enters the penis but cannot stay long enough to sustain an erection. Sometimes, this is caused by conditions like high blood pressure, diabetes, high cholesterol, or venous leaks," she explained.

She noted that stress, poor diets, excessive alcohol intake, and lack of exercise are also major contributors.

"When the mind is stressed or distracted, blood flow shifts to the brain, reducing blood available to sustain an erection," she said.

Dr Acheampong also cautioned against prolonged cycling, which can put pressure on the nerves in the penis, potentially causing erectile issues.

On diagnosis, she explained: "If everything feels right, good environment, attraction, and timing, but performance fails, that’s a red flag. We usually begin by checking for underlying diseases and stress factors, including financial strain."

She advised young men to adopt healthy lifestyles, avoid pornography, and resist the pressure to use sexual enhancement drugs. "Pornography sets unrealistic expectations. Young men must learn to understand and work with their bodies," she emphasised.

Dr Acheampong urged for open conversations around ED to break the stigma and encourage early treatment.

Watch the video below:

Erectile Dysfunction: Here's why you can't get it up | Health Focus



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