Unpacking urinary continence under the Urge to Act campaign

Around 50 – 60 million Europeans suffer from continence health issues, and one of the main objectives of the EAU Policy Office is to steer the Urge to Act campaign into the focus of policymakers at the EU. Not only does incontinence affect a huge number of lives but also comes at a huge cost to states’ public health systems, as well as being a regular burden to the environment and the economy.

Incontinence can be an awkward and uncomfortable issue that patients can feel self-conscious and embarrassed of. The condition can strip patients of their independence and autonomy in everyday activities and productivity, leading to a greatly decreased quality of life. There can be a reluctance for patients to broach an open conversation around the issue to their healthcare practitioners, one of the stigmas that the Urge to Act campaign aims to dismantle.

Maria Walsh, MEP (IE), addressed this struggle during her pre-recorded speech that was featured at the session, stating that no one should have to feel this way about an issue that is so prevalent and has such a devastating impact globally. Mrs. Mary Lynne Van Poelgeest-Pomfret (NL) also called for more patient support, stating that patients and professionals need to collaborate in order to determine the best approach for each individual based on their specific illness and the available therapeutic options. Mrs. Poelgeest-Pomfret asserted that patient satisfaction should be always prioritised by healthcare professionals.

The Policy Office booth at EAU25 accepted suggestions from visitors on what changes they would like to see in continence healthcare. The feedback that has been received over the four-day period is diverse, unique and multi-faceted. Overactive bladder (OAB) awareness and patient advocate Ms. Ana De Santis (IT) remarked on how the psychology of patients with this condition needs to be unpacked by healthcare professionals in more detail, to ensure adherence to treatment plans are carried out effectively. Ms. De Santis went on to highlight the cyclical issues where, in absence of a definitive cure, patients may lose sight of the importance of continuing their treatment.  Elsewhere visitors made suggestions that stressed the importance of helping the environment, such as introducing biodegradable incontinence pads and the importance of healthcare workers collaborating with environmental experts for further fruition.

For more information on the Urge to Act campaign, visit our website, where the Policy Office has outlined a detailed manifesto, the latest economic reports on continence issues, and clear guidance for policymakers.