Chhatrapati Sambhaji Nagar, Aug 2025 — Overactive bladder is becoming one of the city’s most underestimated health concerns, with projections showing a significant share of the population will experience symptoms by the end of the year. Women are expected to bear a greater share of the burden, with a much higher likelihood of being affected compared to men.
Patterns of daily life that have become routine in a fast-paced metropolitan environment are strongly influencing this rise. Long working hours, high stress, frequent consumption of caffeinated and carbonated drinks, nutrient-poor diets, and low levels of physical activity are all placing increased strain on the bladder. While these habits are often accepted as part of urban living, they are quietly undermining urinary health.
The impact of overactive bladder extends far beyond frequent urination or urgency. It can interrupt sleep, cause embarrassment in social or professional settings, lead to withdrawal from daily activities, and reduce overall productivity. Research has shown a clear association between overactive bladder and higher rates of depression, anxiety, and sleep disturbances. The financial impact is also considerable, with the cost of managing the condition in Mumbai projected to exceed hundreds of crores annually, factoring in consultations, diagnostics, treatments, and lost productivity.
According to Dr Atul Soni, Urologist and Andrologist at Soni Hospital, Mahesh Nagar, Sambhajinagar, overactive bladder is as much a lifestyle and quality-of-life issue as it is a urological one. He notes that many people delay visiting a doctor until symptoms begin to interfere with travel, work, or the ability to sleep through the night. By this stage, the condition may have already eroded their confidence and emotional well-being.
Dr Soni points out that stigma is a major barrier. Many believe bladder control problems are an inevitable part of ageing or something they must accept. He stresses that this is not the case, and that simple preventive steps such as reducing caffeine, ensuring proper hydration, exercising regularly, and avoiding excessive late-night fluid intake can help lower the risk.
He also highlights that treatment options have advanced significantly. Neuromodulation therapy, a non-surgical method that works by regulating nerve signals to the bladder, has shown excellent results in restoring bladder control and improving quality of life. Early intervention, he says, not only eases symptoms but prevents the condition from worsening.
Across India, millions of people live with urinary incontinence, with metro cities showing higher prevalence. Experts are calling for more public education, workplace wellness initiatives, and routine screening for high-risk groups to bring the condition into open discussion. Reducing stigma and encouraging timely medical advice are essential steps toward better management.
Dr Soni believes Mumbai can lead by example in addressing this growing concern. With awareness, preventive action, and access to advanced care, thousands of people could see a dramatic improvement in their health and quality of life.
References
- Irwin DE, Milsom I, Hunskaar S, et al. Population-based survey of urinary incontinence, overactive bladder, and other lower urinary tract symptoms in five countries. Eur Urol. 2006;50(6):1306-1314.
- Coyne KS, Sexton CC, Irwin DE, et al. The impact of overactive bladder, incontinence and other lower urinary tract symptoms on quality of life, work productivity, sexuality and emotional well-being in men and women: results from the EPIC study. BJU Int. 2008;101(11):1388-1395.
- Abrams P, Cardozo L, Wagg A, Wein A. Incontinence. 6th ed. Bristol: International Continence Society; 2017.
- National Centre for Vector Borne Disease Control (NCVBDC). Annual Report 2024. Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, Government of India.