Research
Published by FirmTech Last updated November 2026
About 24% of U.S. men experience erectile dysfunction, rising to as high as 52% in men aged 75 and older, according to SingleCare's 2026 statistics. Only 25% of men with ED receive treatment. Below, the strongest published figures on ED and on TechRing research, each quoted as published with its source.
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24%
In the U.S., approximately 24% of men experience ED, with rates as high as 52% in those aged 75 and older.
3% to 77%
Overall global prevalence estimates range from 3% to 77%, depending on the population studied, age group, and diagnostics.
25%
Only 25% of men with ED receive treatment, with global spending on ED medications exceeding $1 billion annually.
2x
Men with ED have twice the risk of heart attacks and strokes (around 6%) compared to men without ED (around 3%), and ED is recognized as an independent predictor of cardiovascular disease.
These figures come from research using the TechRing. FirmTech also reports 308,000+ erections analyzed, 40,000+ rings sold and 20+ studies published or underway, as of November 2026.
12.1 min
In recordings under 1 hour, erections had a median duration of 12.1 minutes, with a firmness rating of 8.6/10.
Source: FirmTech, Research Using the FirmTech TechRing and MaxPR
30.5 min
For recordings exceeding 1 hour, the median erection duration was 30.5 minutes, with a firmness rating of 7.25/10.
Source: FirmTech, Research Using the FirmTech TechRing and MaxPR
10%
Doctors expected that as the incidence of ED increases with age, 10% per decade, the number of nocturnal erections and their firmness would also decrease correspondingly.
Source: FirmTech, Research Using the FirmTech TechRing and MaxPR
10.7%
In the study population, the prevalence of diabetes was 10.7%, and 11.4% of participants were current smokers.
Source: FirmTech, Research Using the FirmTech TechRing and MaxPR
2 users
Only two users reported mild discomfort after more than 4 hours of use, which was easily resolved upon device removal.
Source: Saffati et al., Wearable penile devices: the TechRing, Transl Androl Urol
Peer-reviewed TechRing papers include “Wearable penile devices: the TechRing” (Transl Androl Urol, 2025) and a 2024 J Sex Med randomized survey study comparing two medical-grade constriction devices, both listed on FirmTech's clinical studies page.
Erection rings work mechanically: pressure at the base slows blood from leaving the penis, so an erection that forms can stay firmer for longer while the ring is worn. They do not create an erection on their own or treat the cause of ED. FirmTech says its rings work from the first time you wear one, with no waiting.
Nighttime erections happen without arousal, so they are a clean read of blood flow, nerves and hormones. FirmTech notes that healthy men have 3 to 5 a night during sleep, and that penile arteries are smaller than the heart’s, so changes in circulation often show up there first, before you notice anything during sex.
FirmTech is studying that question. A clinical trial comparing the TechRing with RigiScan, the clinic standard, had 35 men enrolled according to FirmTech’s clinical studies page, as of November 2026. Until results are published, treat TechRing data as a personal trend tool and share it with your doctor for interpretation.
No. The TechRing gives you and your healthcare provider objective data on firmness, duration and nighttime erections, which FirmTech says can help diagnose and manage cardiac and sexual health issues. A diagnosis comes from a clinician. If your numbers change or concern you, share your recordings with your doctor.
FirmTech rings are doctor designed with urologists. FirmTech was founded by Elliot Justin, MD, FACEP, an emergency physician. Its medical advisory board includes urologists John Mulhall, MD, of Memorial Sloan Kettering, Amy Pearlman, MD, of Prime Institute, and James Hotaling, MD, of University of Utah Health, plus internist Stanley Lewis, MD, MPH.
ED rings suit men who want firmer, longer-lasting erections without pills. FirmTech’s TechRing adds tracking for men who also want data on their sexual health. Many men use a ring alongside other treatments. If you have a medical condition or take medication, ask your doctor whether a constriction ring is right for you.
FirmTech's team answers product, sizing and HSA/FSA questions by email.