Study links urinary symptoms in men to increased mortality risk, reveals University of Tampere research

A recent doctoral study from the University of Tampere reveals that urinary symptoms in men are linked to an increased risk of mortality. Medical licentiate Jonne Åkerla examined the impact of these symptoms on male mortality rates as part of a broader research project. The study is grounded in a ten-year follow-up period.

Urinary symptoms are associated with various health conditions, such as cardiovascular diseases, which escalate mortality risk, according to a university statement. Previous research has primarily focused on nocturia, but Åkerla’s findings indicate that even a mild increase in daytime urination frequency can significantly elevate mortality risk.

The term “urinary urgency” describes a sudden, compelling need to urinate. Åkerla investigated how this condition impacts middle-aged and older men over the decade-long study. There has previously been limited information on this topic.

The research highlighted that mild urinary urgency is common and generally well-tolerated. In contrast, at least moderate urinary urgency, while relatively infrequent, poses significant challenges for those affected, and habituation to these symptoms is not typical, Åkerla noted in the research announcement.