…Viatris takes ED awareness campaign to Lagos streets

Health experts have lamented that stigma, embarrassment and pride are keeping many men from speaking openly about erectile dysfunction (ED) and seeking medical attention.
They made the lamentation at the Viatris’ EmpowerED for Life campaign which took the conversation from clinics to the streets of Lagos.

The global healthcare company’s campaign, led by medical doctor and award-winning health educator, Dr. Damian Avar, also known as Sabi Doctor, sought to challenge the silence around men’s sexual health through direct engagement with members of the public.
The team conducted interviews with 25 men and women across various age groups at Ikeja City Mall and the Palms Mall, inviting them to share their views and experiences relating to erectile dysfunction.

The responses, according to the organisers, highlighted growing awareness of ED but also the stigma that continues to make it difficult for some men to discuss the condition or seek help.
While several participants recognised erectile dysfunction as a common and treatable medical condition, others identified stigma and embarrassment as major barriers to addressing the problem.

“We wanted to shift this conversation from the confines of clinics into everyday spaces, because awareness truly begins here. Many men are silently struggling with a condition that affects not only their physical health but also their confidence, relationships, and emotional well-being. Encouraging open dialogue is essential, and initiatives like this help create a safe space for education and understanding,” Associate Vice President – Commercial, Viatris, Sushil Kumar Mishra said.
Global projections suggest that more than 320 million men worldwide are affected by erectile dysfunction, with developing regions projected to see the most significant increases.

Despite its prevalence and impact on quality of life, ED remains widely underreported.
Research also indicates that erectile dysfunction can serve as an early indicator of cardiovascular disease, often appearing before more serious heart complications.

However, conversations around men’s health, particularly issues considered sensitive, remain limited in many communities, especially where cultural norms discourage open discussion.
Dr. Avar said the reluctance to discuss ED could prevent men from paying attention to symptoms that may point to broader health concerns.

“ED is a health condition that deserves genuine attention not judgment. Men’s health conversations need to move from silence to action. Erectile dysfunction is often an early indicator of broader health concerns, yet many men ignore it due to stigma. This initiative is creating safe, informed spaces for dialogue so we can encourage early diagnosis, improve health outcomes, and support healthier lives,” he said.
One participant in the street interviews said open conversations involving healthcare professionals could help reduce the stigma associated with erectile dysfunction.

“Many men avoid talking about these issues because of stigma, pride, or embarrassment. Hearing healthcare professionals discuss them openly helps normalize the conversation. 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,” the participant said.
Viatris said the grassroots activity was aimed at normalising conversations around ED, promoting expert guidance and encouraging meaningful action.

The EmpowerED for Life initiative operates across six African countries, Ghana, Nigeria, Kenya, Côte d’Ivoire, Senegal and South Africa.
The programme combines community outreach, digital storytelling and public education to demystify erectile dysfunction and empower men to seek care confidently and without shame.

Men experiencing symptoms are encouraged to speak to qualified healthcare professionals for accurate guidance and appropriate care.