Overactive bladder (OAB) has become more common among men in the United States. From 2015 to 2020, about 14.5 percent of men experienced OAB, marking a significant increase compared to previous years. This information was shared in a study published online on July 15 in Scientific Reports.
Researchers from Jiangxi Medical College at Nanchang University in China, led by Yu Cheng, examined data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey spanning 2005 to 2020. The study aimed to understand the current prevalence of OAB and its trends over the years, focusing on adult men in the U.S. The data was split into three periods: 2005 to 2008, 2009 to 2014, and 2015 to 2020.
The findings showed a slight increase in OAB cases from 11.3 percent to 11.7 percent between 2005-2008 and 2009-2014. However, a more notable rise to 14.5 percent was observed from 2015 to 2020. This increase was especially evident among men aged 40 to 59, non-Hispanic White and Black men, and those who were overweight or obese.
Risk factors for developing OAB were identified, including older age, non-Hispanic Black race, lower education levels, family poverty, diabetes, depression, sleep disorders, other chronic illnesses, less physical activity, poorer overall health, and unsafe food consumption.
The researchers emphasized the need for future studies to explore OAB disparities among different sociodemographic groups. Understanding what drives the increasing trends in OAB among older men, non-Hispanic White and Black men, and obese men is crucial.
Overactive bladder (OAB) is a condition where there is a sudden urge to urinate that is difficult to control. Sometimes, this can lead to accidental leakage of urine. The bladder muscles contract involuntarily, causing the frequent need to urinate. Causes of OAB can include nerve damage, certain medications, infections, and underlying health conditions like diabetes.
Symptoms of OAB include a sudden urge to urinate, urinating more than usual (more than eight times a day), waking up more than once a night to urinate, and accidental urine leakage.
Treatment options for OAB involve lifestyle changes, such as limiting fluid intake, avoiding caffeine and alcohol, and bladder training exercises. Medications can help relax the bladder muscles. In some cases, nerve stimulation therapies or surgery might be recommended. Complementary treatments like acupuncture and biofeedback may also provide relief.
Key Insights:
- Overactive bladder affects a growing number of U.S. men, with the prevalence rising from 11.3 percent to 14.5 percent over 15 years.
- Men aged 40 to 59, non-Hispanic White and Black individuals, and those who are overweight or obese are most affected.
- Factors like age, race, education level, income, diabetes, depression, sleep disorders, other chronic conditions, and poor health habits contribute to the risk of OAB.
- Future research is needed to address disparities and understand the factors behind the increase in OAB cases.
Source: Scientific Reports, National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey