A GENE which could increase a man’s risk of erectile problems has been identified — raising hope of new treatments.

One in five British men are thought to suffer, with problems more likely as they age.

Many blame stress, tiredness, anxiety and too much booze.

But research published in the journal Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences has found it may be down to genetics.

Scientists found variations in an area of the SIM1 gene were associated with a 26 per cent increased risk of erectile dysfunction.

Eric Jorgenson, from the Kaiser Permanente Northern California’s Division of Research, said: “Identifying this SIM1 ‘locus’ is a big deal because it provides sought-after proof that there is a genetic component to the disease. It opens the door for investigations into new, genetic-based therapies.”

Researchers analysed DNA from two groups — 36,648 men from the US and 222,358 from the UK.

But Professor Mike Kirky, of the Prostate Centre in London, urged caution. He said: “Genetic tests are expensive.

“I don’t think it’s going to be used by your average GP at his clinic.”