UTIs on the rise among men, doctors blame it on lifestyle, stress

Bengaluru: In recent months, hospitals across Bengaluru are reporting a rise in urinary tract infections (UTIs) among men — a condition once rarely associated with them. Traditionally more prevalent among women due to anatomical factors, UTIs were considered uncommon in men and generally linked to specific underlying health issues. The city doctors, however, are now noticing a steady stream of male patients presenting with UTI symptoms such as pain, frequent urination and fever.

Dr Deepak Dubey, HOD & consultant - urology, robotic surgery and renal transplantation, Manipal Hospital, told TOI that they are seeing 10 cases per week, while earlier they would see one case per month.

"UTI cases in men are increasing due to several lifestyle factors. Inadequate hydration is one of the key reasons. Many men don't drink enough water, which is essential to flush out bacteria from the urinary tract and keep the urinary system healthy," said Dr Deepak.

"Men are less likely to get UTI compared to women because of anatomical differences. The male urinary system, with a longer urethra, makes it harder for bacteria to reach the bladder, reducing the likelihood of infections. Unlike women where hygiene and external factors play a significant role, in men, it's primarily internal factors like poor hydration, stress, and unhealthy diet that increase the risk," he said.

Dr Gokulakrishnan PJ, lead consultant and HOD of Urology at Aster Whitefield Hospital, highlighted lifestyle factors, noting that ‘increased frequency of intercourse and promiscuity' are major contributors to the spike. Additionally, he points to unprotected intercourse and unaddressed urological issues — such as obstructions in younger men and foreskin conditions — as critical risk factors. "Urban stress and lifestyle are taking a toll on immunity, and the widespread, uncontrolled use of antibiotics, often unprescribed, is making the body more vulnerable to infections," he explained.

UTIs in women are typically treatable with oral antibiotics, but are more complex in men and often require more intensive treatment. "In men, UTIs can be deep-seated infections needing injectable antibiotics or even hospitalisation. The impact is substantial, as it results in loss of productivity and significant morbidity, especially in the younger workforce," he said.

Dr B Ramesh, andrologist and medical director of Altius Group of Hospitals, told TOI that they see a minimum of 18 cases per month, compared to 1 or 2 cases per month five years ago. "Conditions like diabetes and weakened immune systems are becoming more prevalent, making individuals more susceptible to infections, including UTIs. Procedures such as catheterisation, cystoscopy, and other urological interventions can introduce bacteria into the urinary tract," he concluded.

How to prevent UTIs in men:

- Stay hydrated

- Practice good hygiene

- Urinate after intercourse

- Avoid holding urine for long periods

- Manage any underlying health conditions