A new survey shows that nearly 60% of older men who experience urinary incontinence have never spoken to a doctor about it, highlighting a persistent stigma around this common health issue.
The survey, conducted by Talker Research for Boston Scientific, polled 2,000 men in the U.S. aged 60 and above. It found that 11% of respondents have experienced urinary incontinence. But of those affected, 58% said they had never discussed the issue with their healthcare provider.
Many respondents downplayed their symptoms. About 72% said they had ignored a health issue at least once, often because they believed it was a normal part of aging or not serious enough to mention. Additionally, 20% had intentionally avoided seeing a doctor despite having health concerns, and 13% admitted they were too embarrassed to bring up the topic.
The survey also revealed how incontinence affects daily life. Among those who reported the condition, nearly two-thirds (64%) said it disrupted their routines, and 32% said it had hurt their mental health and confidence. Furthermore, 65% of these men felt there is a stigma around urinary incontinence.
That stigma, however, may be reduced through better education and awareness. More than half of the affected men said public education from healthcare providers (56%) and increased general awareness (51%) could help make people more comfortable addressing the issue.
“It’s important for men to take their health seriously and open up to their doctor, especially as they age,” said Dr. Ron Morton, Chief Medical Officer of Urology at Boston Scientific. “We want to help men feel more comfortable talking about incontinence and raise awareness about available treatments.”
The survey found that many men have tried to manage the issue with non-surgical solutions. These include medications (46%), pads or diapers (43%), and lifestyle changes (29%). Some have explored less common treatments, such as physical therapy (17%) and artificial urinary sphincters (13%).
Encouragingly, more than half (59%) said they would consider surgery if it offered a long-term, effective solution.
“Incontinence is not something men should feel they have to ‘just live with’ or hide from,” added Dr. Morton. “There are several therapies available, and an artificial urinary sphincter can be a lasting option. We urge men to talk to their doctors about what’s right for them.”
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