Inactivity Increases Bladder Risks in Middle-Aged Men

A large Korean study has linked physical inactivity to an increased risk of bladder problems in middle-aged men. Researchers followed nearly 70,000 men, average age 40, over 2.6 years, all of whom had no prior history of bladder disease. Men who exercised, even moderately, were 6–7% less likely to develop lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) like leakage, urgency, difficulty voiding, or nighttime urination. However, men who spent 10 or more hours sitting daily had a 15% higher risk of developing these issues, while those sedentary for 5–9 hours faced an 8% higher risk. The findings suggest that both physical activity and reducing sedentary time are essential for urinary health in men. Importantly, the association between inactivity and bladder issues persisted even after accounting for other risk factors such as obesity and diabetes. While the study did not distinguish between types of sedentary behavior or include many older adults, it reinforces the importance of exercise for bladder health. Experts like Dr. David Penson and Dr. J. Kellogg Parsons note that urinary symptoms may be another consequence of an inactive lifestyle. In summary, regular movement may help prevent urinary tract symptoms and improve overall urological health in men.

Park, H. J., Park, C. H., Chang, Y., & Ryu, S. (2018). Sitting time, physical activity and the risk of lower urinary tract symptoms: A cohort study. BJU International, 122(1), 293–300. https://doi.org/10.1111/bju.14147