Importance of Urology Health

September 10, 2021Urology5

Importance of Urology Health 

September is Urology Awareness Month. This was established by The Urology Foundation in hopes of spreading awareness, raising money to fund research, and encouraging people to prioritize their urology health. Urological health affects our daily life and it is estimated that 1 in 2 of us will be affected by urological conditions in our lifetime. 

Urological conditions are becoming more widespread across the globe and can affect those of all ages. Urology relates to your genitourinary system which is the organs of the urinary system and the reproductive system. These organs include the kidneys, bladder, prostate, testes, and penis. Some common conditions include – 

• Prostate cancer 
• Kidney damage  
• Incontinence 
• Bladder cancer 
• Testicular cancer 
• Kidney stones 
• Interstitial cystitis 
• Urinary tract infections 

Information and Tips for Urology Health

Kidney 

The kidneys are bean-shaped organs located below the ribs. The major function of the kidneys is to filter the blood and remove toxins. This waste is then removed through the urine. The kidneys also regulate bodily fluids, activate vitamin D for healthy bones, and release hormones that regulate blood pressure. 

Kidney disease is a major health concern. According to the National Kidney Foundation, 1 in 3 adults in the United States are at risk for kidney disease. This disease often goes undetected until very advanced; therefore, prioritizing kidney health is important for everyone, and people at risk should get tested regularly. Listed below are some tips to improve kidney health by The National Kidney Foundation –  

1. Monitor cholesterol levels 
2. Get an annual physical 
3. Know your family medical history  
4. Exercise regularly 
5. Maintain a healthy weight 
6. Follow a balanced diet 
7. Quit smoking 
8. Limit alcohol and caffeine 

Bladder  

The bladder is a hollow organ that stores urine located in your lower abdomen. The kidneys pass the urine into the bladder through two tubes called the ureters. Then, urine leaves the bladder through another tube called the urethra. Many conditions can affect your bladder including cystitis, urinary incontinence, overactive bladder, interstitial cystitis, bladder cancer. 

Even though you can’t control everything that affects your bladder, there are ways to improve bladder health. Here are some tips to help boost your bladder –  

1. Avoid constipation with a healthy diet 
2. Use the bathroom when needed 
3. Wipe from front to back  
4. Wear cotton underwear and loose-fitting clothes.  
5. Drink enough water 
6. Limit alcohol and caffeine 
7. Quit smoking 
8. Exercise regularly 

Prostate 

The prostate is a small gland in the male reproductive system. It is located below the bladder, surrounding the urethra, and produces fluid that makes up a part of semen. The prostate grows as men age and testosterone levels increase.  

Prostate cancer is the most common cancer in American men. If detected early, prostate cancers grow slowly and do not cause harm. Therefore, it’s important for aging men to see a urologist regularly. Some tips for better prostate health include –  

1. Maintain a healthy weight 
2. Eat vegetables 
3. Limit red meat 
4. Drink enough water 
5. Exercise regularly 
6. Quit smoking   
7. Manage stress  
8. Get tested if at risk 

Male Reproductive Organs 

The male reproductive organs include the testes and the penis. These organs mature during puberty and function to produce sperm. The male reproductive organs are prone to many health conditions, especially in aging men. Some of these conditions include testicular cancer, penile cancer, Peyronie’s disease, infertility, erectile dysfunction, varicoceles, hydrocele, and more.  

It’s important to see a urologist if you are experiencing symptoms that affect these organs. The sooner these conditions are treated, the less likely they are to cause harm. Tips for healthy reproductive organs include – 

1. Practice good hygiene  
2. Screen for STD’s 
3. Eat a healthy diet 
4. Drink enough water 
5. Exercise regularly  
6. Get enough sleep 
7. Avoid alcohol and tobacco 
8. Manage stress 

References 

https://www.kidney.org/kidneydisease/howkidneyswrk 

https://www.theurologyfoundation.org/urologyhealth  

https://www.cdc.gov/cancer/prostate/basic_info/what-is-prostate-cancer.htm  

https://www.hhs.gov