A recent study suggests that prediabetes may increase the risk of overactive bladder among women. Prediabetes is defined as having blood sugar levels higher than normal, but not as high to diagnose type 2 diabetes. Prediabetes if often a warning sign that lifestyle changes need to take place to reduce the risk of full-blown type 2 diabetes from occurring.
The study looked at 5,771 individuals – men and women – aged 40 to 69 who were part of a multi-phasic health screening. Of the group, 409 women and 189 men reported urinary urgency. Participants were all asked standardized questions for overactive bladder and underwent health evaluations.
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The study found that even modestly elevated fasting plasma glucose (FPG) and HbA1c are independently associated with a higher risk of overactive bladder among women. FPG of 110 to 125 mg/dL was associated with a 46 percent higher risk of overactive bladder among women compared to FPG less than 100 mg/dL.
HbA1c of 5.5 percent to 5.9 percent was associated with a 31 percent higher risk of overactive bladder than HbA1c less than five percent. The same associations were not seen among men.
The authors wrote, “To our knowledge, this is the first study in a population-based sample of men and women to assess the potential role of pre-diabetes in the development of OAB. These results indicate that bladder storage function may be affected even in pre-diabetes in women.”
Prediabetes can very well be controlled and managed with healthy lifestyle habits such as losing weight, regular exercise, and eating well. Based on the research findings, it is wise to reduce your risk of prediabetes to also reduce your risk of overactive bladder.
Also read:
- Prediabetes and early kidney damage linked, prediabetes prevention and proper diet are important
- Natural bladder supplements: 18 herbal remedies for overactive bladder
Mohan Garikiparithi got his degree in medicine from Osmania University (University of Health Sciences). He practiced clinical medicine for over a decade before he shifted his focus to the field of health communications. During his active practice he served as the head of the Dept. of Microbiology in a diagnostic centre in India. On a three-year communications program in Germany, Mohan developed a keen interest in German Medicine (Homoeopathy), and other alternative systems of medicine. He now advocates treating different medical conditions without the use of traditional drugs. An ardent squash player, Mohan believes in the importance of fitness and wellness.
