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Weight Loss May Reduce Incontinence |
For obese and overweight women, losing weight can dramatically reduce
episodes of incontinence, according to a study published in the New
England Journal of Medicine.
Over 300 women were randomly divided into two groups. One group was put on an intensive weight loss program that included diet, exercise and behavior modification. The other group was given the same plan but with no hands-on support. All participants received an educational booklet about urinary incontinence, behavioral techniques, and pelvic floor muscle exercises.
At six months, the women in the intensive weight loss program lost an average 8% of their body weight (about 17 pounds) and reduced weekly urinary incontinence episodes by 47%. Women in the information-only group lost an average 1.6% of body weight (about 3 pounds) and had 28% fewer episodes.
Urinary incontinence affects more than 13 million women in the U.S. and accounts for an estimated $20 billion in annual health care costs, according to background information in the study.
The study also documented that weight loss intervention also decreased the risk of developing type 2 diabetes and high blood pressure, improved cholesterol levels, and improved moods and quality of life.
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