Warm Weather Linked to Increased UTI Risk: Hydration May Be Key

Warmer temperatures are linked to a higher incidence of urinary tract infections (UTIs), according to a study presented at ID Week by Dr. Jacob Simmering from the University of Iowa. Analyzing nearly 22 million outpatient UTI claims from 397 U.S. metropolitan areas (2011–2016), researchers found a clear dose-response relationship: for every 1°F increase above the average temperature, UTI cases rose by 3% within a region, and by 6% across different regions. Notably, the risk increase began at mild temperatures around 50°F, likely due to increased outdoor activity, sweating, and reduced hydration. These findings suggest even moderate warmth may contribute to dehydration-related UTI risk. The study supports the hydration hypothesis, proposing that lower hydration levels during warmer days may drive UTI incidence. This trend remained significant even in areas with minimal seasonal variation, such as coastal California and Florida. No microbiological data were included, relying solely on insurance claims and weather records.

Walker, M. (2018, October 6). Do UTI cases heat up on hotter days? — Study finds support for the hydration hypothesis surrounding the infection. MedPage Today. https://www.medpagetoday.com/meetingcoverage/idweek/75550