A recent study found that recurrent urinary tract infections may be linked to an increased risk of developing dementia later in life, highlighting the role of infections in affecting brain health.
Researchers from the University of Helsinki in Finland found that acute bacterial infections — primarily urinary tract infections — may be associated with a risk of up to 19% higher than normal for dementia.
Researchers believe the cause is the body's inflammatory response; the infection triggers an overactive immune system, which can damage brain cells associated with memory. They also suggest that having a urinary tract infection five to six years before a dementia diagnosis may accelerate the onset of symptoms, especially in individuals with a predisposition to the condition.
The research team explained that this infection may not be the direct cause of dementia, but may accelerate the stage preceding the appearance of symptoms, rather than starting the disease in people with sound cognitive health.
Urinary tract infections (UTIs) occur when bacteria enter the urinary system, whether due to sexual activity, catheter use, or hormonal changes associated with menopause. Women are more susceptible because their shorter urethra makes it easier for bacteria to reach the bladder.
Common symptoms include a burning sensation during urination, frequent and urgent need to urinate, and pain in the lower abdomen or back. In older adults, these symptoms may manifest as confusion or altered mental status, which can be mistaken for signs of dementia.
Although most cases are easily treated with antibiotics within days, neglecting them can lead to serious complications, such as kidney inflammation or sepsis, a serious condition resulting from the body's excessive response to infection.
The study analyzed data from over 62,000 people diagnosed with dementia after age 65, along with a control group of over 312,000 people without the condition. Researchers identified 29 risk factors for dementia, including heart disease, neurological disorders, mental health problems, endocrine disorders, and certain bacterial infections.
However, the researchers pointed out some limitations, such as the lack of detailed information on how to treat urinary tract infections, and the lack of differentiation between the different types of dementia.
The risk of developing these infections can be reduced by drinking enough fluids, avoiding holding urine, following proper hygiene habits, and wearing comfortable cotton underwear.
The study was published in the journal PLOS Medicine.
