Healthy Lifestyle Practices Linked to Reduced Overactive Bladder Risk
Recent research indicates that adherence to a healthy lifestyle may significantly diminish the risk of developing overactive bladder (OAB). A study published in Frontiers in Nutrition revealed a strong association between a composite healthy lifestyle score and the prevalence of OAB among adults.
The investigation, led by researchers at The First Affiliated Hospital of Kunming Medical University in China, utilized data from the U.S. National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) spanning from 2007 to 2020. The study involved 20,195 nonpregnant adults aged 20 to 79, aiming to explore how various lifestyle factors correlate with OAB risk.
To assess the participants' healthy lifestyle, the researchers developed a score based on five key components: non-smoking status, low to moderate alcohol intake, adequate physical activity, adherence to a healthy diet, and maintenance of optimal waist circumference.
Among the participants, 14.58% were diagnosed with OAB. The findings demonstrated a clear inverse relationship between the healthy lifestyle score and the likelihood of experiencing OAB symptoms. Individuals exhibiting four to five healthy lifestyle traits presented a significantly lower risk compared to those with none or one such characteristic, with an adjusted odds ratio of 0.54.
Moreover, the study identified that each additional healthy lifestyle factor corresponded to a 17% reduction in the risk of OAB, highlighting the cumulative benefits of adopting healthier habits.
The analysis confirmed the robustness of these associations through sensitivity checks. Notably, independent factors contributing to a decreased risk of OAB included not smoking, moderate alcohol consumption, regular physical activity, a nutritious diet, and maintaining a healthy waist circumference.
The researchers emphasized the potential for healthcare professionals to integrate lifestyle counseling into their patient care strategies, offering tailored recommendations for those at heightened risk for OAB. This approach could empower individuals to make informed lifestyle choices that may mitigate the risk of developing this condition.
For more detailed information, refer to the original study in Frontiers in Nutrition.