(O-24) Clinical characterization of erectile dysfunction in men under 40 years: experience from a referral center in Bogotá, Colombia

Abstract Introduction/Objective Erectile dysfunction (ED) has traditionally been studied in men over 40 years of age. However, in younger men it represents a relevant clinical problem, with vascular, hormonal, neurological, and psychological causes. These patients are less likely to seek medical care due to social stigma or the belief that the problem will resolve spontaneously. The objective of this study was to clinically characterize patients under 40 years of age with ED treated at a referral center in Bogotá. Materials and Methods We conducted a retrospective cohort study including 46 male patients younger than 40 years diagnosed with ED between 2023 and 2025 at Hospital de San José, Bogotá. Data collected included age, body mass index (BMI), glucose, total cholesterol, total testosterone, lower urinary tract symptoms, and cardiovascular comorbidities. Erectile function was evaluated using the San José Erectile Dysfunction Index, considering a score below 3 as inability to achieve penetration. Results The mean age was 32.4 years, and the mean BMI was 24.9 kg/m2. Forty-three percent of patients were unable to achieve penetration, and 57% achieved it with difficulty. The mean total testosterone level was 5.38 ng/dl. Vitamin D deficiency was observed in 37%, and hypothyroidism in 26%. Anxiety and depression were present in 17%, while penile fibrosis was found in 10.8%. Daily tadalafil 5 mg was administered in 61% of cases, resulting in clinical improvement. Intracavernosal injections were used for diagnostic purposes in 13% of patients. Conclusions ED in young men is a multifactorial condition. Treatment with daily tadalafil was effective in most cases, underscoring the importance of a comprehensive and timely approach. Financing No conflict.