By Kingsley Samuel
Street interviews in Lagos have revealed differing levels of awareness about erectile dysfunction, ED, with some residents describing it as a treatable medical condition and others pointing to the stigma that makes it difficult to discuss.
The interviews were conducted with 25 men and women at Ikeja City Mall and The Palms Mall as part of Viatris’ EmpowerED for Life campaign. The outreach was led by medical doctor and health educator Dr Damian Avar, popularly known as Sabi Doctor.
Avar said taking the conversation into public spaces could help people learn more about ED and encourage men to seek professional advice.
“We wanted to shift this conversation from the confines of clinics into everyday spaces, because awareness truly begins here,” said Sushil Kumar Mishra, Associate Vice-President, Commercial, Viatris.
“Many men are silently struggling with a condition that affects not only their physical health but also their confidence, relationships and emotional well-being,” he said. “Encouraging open dialogue is essential.”
The campaign’s street interviews drew varied responses. Some participants recognised ED as a common and treatable condition, while others highlighted the embarrassment and stigma that can prevent men from talking about symptoms or seeking help.
One participant said open discussions led by healthcare professionals could help make the subject easier to address.
“Hearing healthcare professionals discuss them openly helps normalise the conversation,” he said. “It reinforces that erectile dysfunction is a medical condition, not something to be ashamed of, and that seeking help early can make a real difference.”
Avar said men should not ignore symptoms because of stigma, noting that ED may sometimes be an early sign of broader health concerns.
“ED is a health condition that deserves genuine attention, not judgment,” he said. “Men’s health conversations need to move from silence to action.”
Global projections suggest more than 320 million men are affected by ED, with developing regions expected to record significant increases. Despite its prevalence, the condition remains widely underreported.
EmpowerED for Life is a Viatris-led campaign operating in Nigeria, Ghana, Kenya, Côte d’Ivoire, Senegal and South Africa. It uses community outreach, digital storytelling and public education to improve understanding of ED and encourage men to seek care.
Viatris advised men experiencing symptoms to speak with a qualified healthcare professional for accurate guidance and appropriate care.
