Urology Awareness Month, which takes place every September, focuses on spreading awareness regarding urological diseases, and also raises money so further scientific research is conducted in the department. The month, which was founded by the Urology Foundation, encourages people to focus on their urological health so they can eliminate the disease before it reaches a dangerous stage. And yes, there is no particular age for developing a urological disease, hence children and adults alike need to take care of their bodies. This month, find out all that you can about your urology health and also enlighten those around you.
History of Urology Awareness Month
Over the years, emphasis has been placed on urology health since urological diseases have seen a massive rise. Around one in two of us will be affected by a urology condition in our lifetime, and these conditions can be painful. First and foremost, let’s take a look at what urology is. It involves studying the female urinary system and male genitourinary tract. These are the parts of the body that produce, store and get rid of urine. For men, the parts also perform a sexual function. Hence, urology is the study and care of reproductive health, kidneys, bladder, ureters, urethra, prostate, penis, and testicles. Whereas, the job of the urologist is to diagnose and treat any disorder that is incurred in the above-mentioned regions. A few of the serious urological conditions include prostate cancer, kidney damage, bladder cancer, testicular cancer, kidney stones, interstitial cystitis, and urinary tract infections. Other common conditions are cystitis or erectile dysfunction. This is why the quality of life we lead is highly dependent on our urological health.To help in tackling urological diseases and to spread awareness regarding the existing conditions, the Urology Awareness Month was launched in 2014 by The Urology Foundation. This is a charity operating in the U.K. with the sole purpose of improving urology health. The organization also focuses on breaking the stigma around urological health and conditions such as testicular cancer, U.T.I.s, and male infertility. This is because, according to doctors, most of the conditions can be treated if they’re diagnosed and treated an early stage.
Urology Awareness Month timeline
Stonecutters are used to remove bladder stones throughout Europe.
Felix Guyon becomes the first professor of urology in Paris.
The British Association of Urological Surgeons is founded.
The Hopkins® rod lens system is developed and helps cure many urological conditions.
Urology Awareness Month FAQs
What does a urologist treat?
A urologist specializes in diagnosing and treating diseases of the urinary system.
What is a urology problem?
This includes urinary tract infections, kidney stones, bladder control problems, and prostate problems.
What is the best antibiotic for urinary tract infection?
Trimethoprim/sulfamethoxazole is amongst the best antibiotics for the infection.
How to Observe Urology Awareness Month
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Visit a hospital
To celebrate the day, visit a hospital where many patients with urological ailments are admitted. You can also arrange a school trip for children so they understand the importance of the month.
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Donate away
Want to be a part of historical research? Donate some money to organizations and hospitals that are involved in research related to urology. You could also host a charity dinner to help in gathering funds.
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Research
Research all that you can about the urological conditions and what causes them. Compile the research and print posters that you can put up around your neighborhood. This will help educate the young and old.
5 Important Facts About U.T.I.s
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Obesity linked to kidney stones
Research shows that individuals with a body mass index over 30 often suffer from kidney stones.
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Women in the U.K. with U.T.I.s
50% to 60% of women develop a U.T.I. at least once in their life.
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Prostate cancer deaths
There were 11,631 prostate cancer deaths in 2016.
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Deaths due to bladder cancer
In the U.K., 5,300 people die of the ailment yearly.
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People with chronic kidney disease
One in eight people in the U.K. has the disease.
Why Urology Awareness Month is Important
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It raises awareness
We love the month because it raises awareness regarding several urological ailments that have a stigma attached to them. For instance, men with erectile dysfunction often find it difficult to seek help.
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It helps raise funds
The month may encourage millions of people across the country to donate to the study of urology. The more the funds, the more the chances of scientists developing cures to serious conditions.
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It encourages research
Due to this month, many organizations and government institutions are forced to rethink their commitment to the cause. Oftentimes, it urges them to give more resources to the study of urology health.
Urology Awareness Month dates
| Year | Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2023 | September 1 | Friday |
| 2024 | September 1 | Sunday |
| 2025 | September 1 | Monday |
| 2026 | September 1 | Tuesday |
| 2027 | September 1 | Wednesday |
