Peyronie’s Disease Facts and Statistics_ What You Need to Know

Understanding Peyronie’s Disease: Key Facts and Research

According to the National Institutes of Health (NIH), approximately 1 in 100 individuals with a penis in the United States are diagnosed with Peyronie’s disease (PD)—a condition where scar tissue causes abnormal curvature of the penis. However, newer studies suggest the true prevalence might be closer to 1 in 10, as many people do not seek diagnosis or treatment due to mild symptoms that don’t disrupt sexual function.

While Peyronie’s disease is not life-threatening, it can cause serious emotional distress and relationship problems in more than half of those affected. Additionally, about 32% of men with PD report experiencing erectile dysfunction (ED). This article explores what Peyronie’s disease is, its causes, symptoms, diagnosis, and how it affects quality of life.

What Is Peyronie’s Disease?

Peyronie’s disease is a non-cancerous connective tissue disorder in which fibrous scar tissue (plaques) forms under the skin of the penis, typically as a result of repeated minor trauma. This can occur during sexual activity or masturbation, leading to a curved, sometimes painful erection. Genetics may also play a role in susceptibility to PD.

Penile Curvature and Peyronie’s Disease Symptoms

While some penile curvature is normal, Peyronie’s disease causes an abnormal bend—often upward, downward, or sideways. The severity of the condition varies, and symptoms may include:

• Pain during or without an erection

• Difficulty or pain during sexual intercourse

• Noticeable hard lumps or indentations on the shaft

• Reduction in penile length or girth

• Erectile dysfunction (inability to achieve or maintain an erection)

• Emotional symptoms such as depression, anxiety, or relationship strain

How Common Is Peyronie’s Disease?

Though traditionally believed to affect about 1% of men, newer population-based research published in PLOS One suggests that up to 11% of men may show symptoms of Peyronie’s disease. That’s approximately 1 in 9 adult males in the U.S.—or around 11 million individuals.

Causes and Risk Factors of Peyronie’s Disease

Trauma and Genetic Susceptibility

Most cases are linked to injury or repeated trauma during sexual activity. However, genetics is believed to play a role, especially among those with connective tissue disorders like Dupuytren’s contracture—a hand condition also associated with PD.

Racial and Economic Disparities in Diagnosis

Studies show that White individuals are diagnosed with PD more frequently than other racial groups. However, this may reflect unequal access to healthcare and underdiagnosis in Black and Latinx populations.

For instance, individuals earning more than $75,000 annually are 10 times more likely to receive a diagnosis than those earning under $25,000. A 2020 study in Sexual Medicine found White men were nearly four times more likely than Black men to pursue diagnosis and treatment.

Peyronie’s Disease by Age Group

While most common in older adults, Peyronie’s disease affects younger people more than previously thought. Diagnosis often occurs later in life, leading to the mistaken belief it is strictly an “older man’s condition.”

Diagnosis Rates by Age:

• Ages 30–39: 1.5%

• Ages 40–59: 3.0%

• Ages 60–69: 4.0%

• Ages 70 and above: 6.5%

But a Yale University study analyzing “possible” PD symptoms across 7,711 participants revealed much higher rates among younger individuals:

• Ages 18–24: 15%

• Ages 25–34: 12.9%

• Ages 35–44: 9.5%

• Ages 44–54: 8.7%

• Ages 55–64: 13%

• Ages 65–74: 13.1%

• Age 75+: 13.9%

These findings suggest Peyronie’s disease often starts earlier and may be more severe in younger adults than previously believed.

Physical and Emotional Impact of Peyronie’s Disease

Though Peyronie’s disease does not increase the risk of death, it significantly impacts quality of life. It’s associated with:

• Chronic pain and sexual dysfunction

• Low self-esteem and depression

• Relationship issues (54% report intimacy problems due to PD-related anxiety or self-image concerns)

• Clinical depression (affecting up to 1 in 5 men with PD)

Peyronie’s Disease and Associated Health Conditions

Peyronie’s disease has been linked to other long-term health issues, including:

• Diabetes: More common among people with PD, particularly those with complications like diabetic neuropathy or retinopathy

• Enlarged Prostate: Individuals with PD have a 2x higher risk of prostatitis and 3x greater risk of benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH)

• Erectile Dysfunction: Nearly 1 in 3 men with PD also experience ED, though the cause may not always be directly linked

Is Peyronie’s Disease Linked to Infertility?

While Peyronie’s disease can interfere with sexual function, it is not directly linked to infertility. However, severe cases may make intercourse difficult or painful, which could impact the ability to conceive.

Can Peyronie’s Disease Be Prevented?

Preventing Peyronie’s disease is challenging since it’s often caused by trauma during sex. Using adequate lubrication, avoiding aggressive sexual positions, and seeking early treatment for penile injuries may help reduce the risk.