Asian perspective: Premature ejaculation prevalence and attitudes (PEPA) among Singaporean men

Abstract 

Objective

To evaluate the perceptions and prevalence of premature ejaculation (PE) among men in Singapore.

Methods

Online or in-person questionnaires were conducted in a random sample of 243 men aged 18–55 years who are currently or were in a sexual relationship within the past 2 years. The prevalence of PE was examined through a validated diagnostic PE Tool (PEDT) and via self-assessment.

Results

The PEDT revealed that 20% of the respondents have PE and about 14% of them Probable PE. In contrast, when asked to seIf-diagnose, only 16% of the respondentsfelt that they have PE. Majority (90%) agreed that PE significantly affects a man's self-esteem while 21% viewed PE as a bigger concern compared to erectile dysfunction (19%). However, only 23% of men with PE have spoken to a doctor regarding their condition and one-third have no intention to. Overall, two-thirds strongly believe that PE can effectively be treated with prescription medicine, but only 17% have heard of prescription medication for PE. The most common approach participants have heard of for dealing with PE is still behavioural therapy. Interestingly, it was also established that the partner plays a significant role in motivating men with PE to seek treatment.

Conclusions

The prevalence of PE in Singapore is similar to previously published Caucasian data. Singaporean men are very conscious of their partner's satisfaction and this is a motivating factor for them to seek treatment. However, they are likely to benefit from additional education on the topic.

Keywords:  Premature ejaculation , Prevalence , Attitude , Community-based , Singapore

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