Bladder infections are prevalent among South Africans, with the country ranked highest for urinary tract infections (UTIs) among eight other sub-Saharan African countries. This is according to a study published in the Journal of Health and Biological Sciences.
Overall, the prevalence of UTIs in sub-Saharan Africa is 32,12%, with the highest prevalence (67,6%) recorded in South Africa, followed by Nigeria (43,65%), and Zambia (38,25%). Research revealed that in South Africa, UTIs are common, especially among women.
Elani van Zyl, critical care product manager for Pharma Dynamics, said increase in a woman’s risk of contracting UTIs ranged from various factors such as compromised immunity, diabetes, and poor personal hygiene – exacerbated by poor sanitation, limited access to clean water, and inadequate healthcare infrastructure.
Van Zyl said 25% to 30% of women between the ages of 20 and 40 years experienced recurrent infections.
“Getting two UTIs in six months or three in a year is considered having recurrent UTIs. Bladder infections (cystitis) occur when tiny microbes travel up the urethra and into the bladder, causing an uncomfortable and painful infection in the lower urinary tract. While easily treatable, UTIs can spread into your upper urinary tract and cause a host of problems, which is why a proper diagnosis early on is important,” she said.
Van Zyl pointed out that anatomically, women were more prone to UTIs due to them having a shorter urethra than men.
“This shorter distance between the bladder and the external environment makes it easier for bacteria to travel up the urethra and reach the bladder, leading to infections.
“Sexual activity can also introduce unwanted bacteria into the urinary tract since the urethra in women is much closer to the anus than in men, which makes it easier for bacteria to wind up in the bladder,” she said.
Van Zyl further pointed out that mechanical contraception – spermicides, diaphragms and cervical caps – could also increase the risk of UTIs by altering the balance of bacteria in the vagina or by causing irritation to the urinary tract.
The study discovered that in men, prostate problems had the potential to increase their risk of UTIs.
Van Zyl explained that a swollen prostate could affect different parts of the urinary system, making it harder for urine to flow through the narrow tube.
This can cause inflammation, which increases the risk of bacterial infection, leading to cystitis or prostatitis.
“While more than 80% of UTIs are caused by E.coli, other bacteria, such as Klebsiella pneumoniae and Staphylococcus aureus are also responsible for the disease, although to a lesser degree,” Van Zyl confirmed.
“Preventing bladder infections or UTIs involves adopting healthy lifestyle habits and practices that reduce the risk of bacterial growth and infection in the urinary tract.”
She has encouraged people frequently experiencing UTIs, or who have specific risk factors, to consult with a healthcare professional.
These specialists can provide personalised guidance and recommendations to help prevent recurrent UTIs.
