Men Urged to Protect themselves from UTIs
Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are often misunderstood as a women-only health issue, but men are just as susceptible—and when they strike, the pain can be severe. Paul S. Dangha, a microbiologist and medical laboratory technologist at the University of Arkansas Medical Science Hospital, is raising awareness about this overlooked condition in men.
A UTI occurs when harmful bacteria, particularly E. coli, invade parts of the urinary system—from the kidneys to the urethra. While women are more frequently diagnosed, men can also develop UTIs, especially as they age or face issues like an enlarged prostate.
The Male Urinary Anatomy
To understand how UTIs affect men, it’s important to know the key components of the urinary system:
Kidneys: Filter waste from the blood and produce urine
Ureters: Carry urine from the kidneys to the bladder
Bladder: Stores urine until it’s expelled
Prostate: Produces semen and surrounds the urethra
Bacteria thrive in moist environments, and poor hygiene or holding urine for too long can increase the risk of infection.
Common Symptoms in Men:
- Burning or pain during urination
- Frequent urge to urinate, even with little output
- Cloudy, dark, or bloody urine
- Pain in the lower abdomen or back
- Fever or chills—especially if the infection has reached the kidneys
Prevention Tips: Stay hydrated to flush bacteria, Don’t delay urination, maintain good personal hygiene, Urinate after sexual activity. Consult a doctor promptly when symptoms appear
Left untreated, UTIs can lead to serious complications such as kidney damage and fertility issues. Dangha emphasizes that awareness and early action are key. “Men shouldn’t ignore the signs,” he warns. “A simple infection can turn dangerous if neglected.”
