A new pan-African health campaign, EmpowerED for Life, has been launched by Viatris to raise awareness about erectile dysfunction (ED) and overall men’s health across Africa.
This initiative aims to encourage open conversations, reduce stigma, and promote early diagnosis and treatment of ED, a condition often linked to serious health problems such as diabetes, hypertension, and cardiovascular disease.
Unveiled during a major webinar gathering healthcare experts, policymakers, advocates, and media, the campaign highlighted the high prevalence of ED and its significant impact on men’s physical and emotional well-being. ED is increasingly recognized as a public health concern that signals underlying issues including obesity, depression, and anxiety.
Studies show worrisome rates of ED in African countries: Nigeria reports prevalence between 43.8% and 58.9%, while in Ghana, about 65.9% of men experience ED starting from a young age. Alarmingly, up to 85% of men with ED across Africa do not seek medical help.
Arvind Kanda, Head of Access Markets at Viatris, emphasized the harmful effects of stigma that prevent men from seeking care. “EmpowerED for Life promotes empathy, evidence-based treatments, and open dialogue to help men access the support they need,” he said.
The campaign will launch activities in countries including Nigeria, Kenya, Ghana, Senegal, Côte d’Ivoire, and South Africa, employing digital media, community outreach, professional education, and healthcare partnerships.
Dr. Nnabugwu Ikenna Ifeanyi, a leading surgical professor, noted that ED reflects broader health risks and deeply affects self-esteem and relationships. Cultural taboos and limited specialist access delay care in many African communities, reinforcing the need for awareness efforts like EmpowerED.
Additionally, the campaign warns against unregulated ED treatments that pose serious health threats. With this initiative, Viatris reaffirms a commitment to health equity by putting a spotlight on men’s sexual and overall health, aiming to ensure men across Africa no longer suffer in silence and can live healthier lives.
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