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AT least one-in-four Australian men have problems achieving or maintaining an erection, a major scientific survey has found.

While most prevalent in older men, the disorder is also relatively common in men in their 20s.

The vast majority suffer in silence and do not see a doctor or health worker to seek treatment such as Viagra.

The researchers surveyed 1500 West Australian men aged 20 or older who were randomly selected from the electoral roll.

They found 25.1 per cent suffered erectile dysfunction and 8.5 per cent suffered the condition severely.

Researchers said it was highly likely the findings applied to men nationwide.

"Erectile dysfunction is highly prevalent in WA, under-diagnosed and grossly under-treated," the researchers, led by Kew-Kim Chew from WA's Keogh Institute of Medical Research, concluded.

Regarding the incidence of the disorder in young men, the researchers said: "Stresses related to early adulthood, budding relationships and new responsibilities associated with entering the workforce and commencing independent living are possible contributory factors."