The precise epidemiology of UAB is uncertain; however, the condition is prevalent with no regard to gender. UAB can be present at any age. Recent research suggests that UAB is more prevalent than previously thought, perhaps because the incidence of the condition increases with age. Although little is known about the underlying causes of UAB, the decline of both bladder and urethral function is associated with aging. With an aging population across the developed world, it is clear that UAB is a growing issue.

There is no cure for UAB. Available pharmacotherapy is currently lacking. A class of drugs called cholinergic agonists is the most commonly used drugs for the condition. These products are too often marginally effective, ineffective and are associated with systemic side effects.

Chronic clean intermittent catheterization (CIC) is the most relied upon treatment for UAB. CIC enables many UAB patients to manage the condition and endure. Without CIC, UAB would be more strongly associated with mortality. Although CIC remains the mainstay of UAB treatment for the foreseeable future, it does have issues.

Many patients are unable to perform CIC. Patients using CIC on a daily basis experience discomfort, stigma, and inconvenience. Additionally, chronic CIC is associated with complications including urinary tract infections and bleeding. This is troublesome as a single episode of a urinary tract infection can be costly to the patient and health system.

Unfortunately, with existing catheter technology, the only way to reduce the risk of CIC-related complications is to reduce the duration and frequency of CIC. Portable bladder scanners which accurately measure bladder volume are widely available, are inexpensive, and may help in this regard. These scanners can be used effectively to reduce the number of CICs which can decrease the risk of infections. Additionally, to combat complications of CIC, healthcare providers need to be aware of the current guidelines which help ensure patient safety. We still need alternative strategies and new tools to improve the management of UAB.

UAB is a significant reason for nursing home placement of the elderly. Patients who are unable to catheterize themselves are too often forced to enter a nursing home. Nursing homes are costly and can be detrimental to the long-term health of a patient. As populations age, the number of people and associated costs of UAB will continue to escalate. If we can find a way to better treat the condition, it would allow for substantial medical savings while allowing countless individuals to remain independent. In the era of ever rising healthcare costs, this is an issue we cannot afford to ignore.

Although UAB affects many people, it has received a disproportionately low level of attention. Despite a growing interest in the medical community, UAB’s public profile remains limited. There are serious issues standing in the way of understanding UAB that result in the condition being overlooked and misdiagnosed too often.