What percentage of Japanese men are likely to have ED?

Based on the self-diagnosis scale (EHS), it is estimated that about 50% of Japanese men have the possibility of ED.

What are the main challenges in Japanese men's understanding of ED?

Only 60.9% of those who recognize ED correctly understand the medical definition. There are misconceptions such as 'ED only occurs when there is no erection at all' and a lack of understanding that it can be due to aging.

What actions do men who are aware of their ED take?

The focus is on lifestyle improvements, such as 'exercising' (20.8%) and 'taking health drinks' (21.4%). Consulting healthcare providers (15.7%) and taking medications (19.3%) are less common compared to other countries.

What are the main factors that inhibit men from seeking help for ED?

Psychological barriers such as 'not wanting others to know' and 'feeling it damages self-esteem,' as well as concerns that 'consulting won't help' or 'they might be laughed at,' inhibit men from seeking help.

Does communication with a partner affect ED treatment?

Surveys show that ED can impact the relationship with a partner. In Japan, there is a strong tendency not to discuss sexual concerns with partners, and this lack of communication may delay treatment.

Approx. Half of Japanese Men May Have ED: SS Pharmaceutical Releases 'ED White Paper'

Published Jun 10, 2026 11:00 AM ・ Updated Jun 14, 2026 4:37 PM ・ 4 min read ・ Source: PR TIMES

A survey by SS Pharmaceutical reveals that while approximately 50% of Japanese men may have ED, many are unaware of it or discouraged from seeking treatment due to psychological barriers.

SS Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd. has released the 'ED White Paper: Deciphering the Reality and Psychology of ED in Japan through International Comparison' following a comprehensive survey on ED (erectile dysfunction) and sexual well-being.

The study reveals that while approximately one in two Japanese men may have ED, a significant portion remains in an 'unaware' category, not recognizing their condition.

Only about 20% of men have experience discussing ED with others, highlighting the high psychological hurdles to seeking advice. Notably, 35.4% of men in their 20s reported having been teased about ED, suggesting that the environment in Japan is not conducive to open discussion for those aware of their condition.

Furthermore, Japanese men tend to rely on lifestyle improvements such as 'exercising' or 'drinking energy drinks' rather than medical approaches like consulting healthcare providers or taking prescribed medication, a trend lower than in other countries.

Key Survey Findings: - 66.9% of Japanese men are aware of ED, but only 60.9% correctly understand its medical definition. - Approx. 1 in 2 men may have ED (including EHS grade 3 or lower). - Only about 20% have experience discussing ED. - 35.4% of men in their 20s reported having been teased about ED. - Most rely on energy drinks or exercise; medical approaches are less common.

ED is defined as a persistent or recurrent inability to achieve or maintain an erection sufficient for satisfactory sexual performance. While the awareness rate in Japan is 66.9%, the accuracy of that understanding is limited.

Based on the Erection Hardness Score (EHS), only 45.3% of respondents were 'Grade 4 (completely hard),' suggesting that nearly half might be experiencing ED. Many men with lower EHS scores do not consider themselves to have ED, indicating a gap between self-perception and reality.

Psychological barriers, such as the fear of being teased, discourage men from seeking help, with only 20% taking action. Additionally, a lack of dialogue between partners contributes to delays in treatment.

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Source: PR TIMES
Category: Survey

Approx. Half of Japanese Men May Have ED: SS Pharmaceutical Releases 'ED White Paper'

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