UTIs in B'luru surge due to sedentary lifestyles, poor diets, & antibiotic misuse

Sowmya Raju | NT

Bengaluru: As we celebrate International Women's Day on March 8, it is crucial to shed light on a prevalent health issue affecting a significant number of women in Bengaluru – Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs).

Dr Meghana Reddy Jetty, a Consultant in Obstetrics, Gynaecology, and Laparoscopic surgery at Birth Right by Rainbow Children’s Hospital in Marathahalli, shared insights into the factors contributing to the rising cases of UTIs in the city and emphasised the importance of awareness and timely intervention.

Various studies estimate that over half of women in India will experience at least one UTI in their lifetime.

The overall prevalence in the city ranges from 20-40%, with women being more affected, especially those with additional risk factors.

Dr Reddy points out that lifestyle changes, particularly sedentary habits and unhealthy dietary practices common in metropolitan areas, can impact immunity, making individuals more prone to infections.

The elderly population, often dealing with chronic conditions like diabetes, faces a higher predisposition to UTIs.

Dehydration and infrequent urination, prevalent in hot weather, further elevate the risk. Notably, antibiotic misuse stands out as a significant cause of recurrent and resistant UTIs.

Dangers of untreated UTIs

If left untreated, UTIs can escalate into more severe infections, potentially affecting the bladder and kidneys.

Recurrent infections may lead to kidney tissue damage or, in severe cases, result in systemic infections. Dr Reddy emphasises, “Untreated UTIs can even be a known cause of preterm labour in pregnant women, underlining the critical need for prompt medical attention. Women in the reproductive age group (15- 49 years) are three times more susceptible to UTIs due to factors like sexual activity, menstrual hygiene, and contraceptive practices.”

She added older menopausal women are also at risk due to age and hormonal changes in the genito-urinary system.

Symptoms, medical attention

Common symptoms of UTIs include a burning sensation during urination, frequent and incomplete urination, abdominal pain, and fever with chills.

Dr Reddy advises, “Individuals experiencing these symptoms to seek medical attention promptly, particularly if fever and chills are present, as they may indicate a more severe infection.”

Preventive measures & lifestyle

Maintaining adequate fluid intake, consuming cranberry and blueberry juices, and incorporating fruits, vegetables, and curd or yoghurt into the diet are essential preventive measures.

Avoiding substances like caffeine and alcohol, promoting regular bladder emptying, maintaining personal hygiene, and adopting safe sexual practices contribute significantly to reducing the risk of UTIs.

Bengaluru's climate, characterised by a 50% increase in UTIs during the summer due to dehydration, underscores the impact of environmental factors on nfection prevalence.

Challenges, initiatives

Dr Reddy urged, “Early diagnosis, prompt treatment, and patient education for UTIs. Recognising symptoms and ensuring proper antibiotic use are vital to curbing antibiotic resistance.”

She added, “Bengaluru's healthcare system copes with rising UTI cases, implementing continuous improve - ments. Primary interventions involve hydration and antibiotic treatment based on culture and sensitivity reports, with severe cases necessitating hospitalisation. Specialists are pivotal in managing recurrent infection factors.”

Empowering women

To reach a broad audience, Dr Reddy advocates for multi-platform education, including articles, talks, leaflets, blogs, vlogs, and social media.

Encouraging women to recognise symptoms, complete treatment regimens, and seek timely medical help, especially during pregnancy, is vital. Health camps can assist rural areas, promoting awareness and swift diagnosis.