Manneken Pis pauses urination to highlight bladder problems

In a symbolic gesture during World Continence Week, the famous Manneken Pis statue in Brussels paused its perpetual stream of urine. The act, orchestrated by doctors and patient associations, aims to draw attention to the widespread issue of urinary incontinence and urge individuals not to suffer in silence.

Experts emphasize that incontinence is not solely an ailment of the elderly. "Although incontinence is often seen as a problem that primarily affects older people, younger people also experience complaints such as an overactive bladder," stated organizers of the World Continence Week. They highlight that many patients wait an average of six years before consulting a doctor, with 40% of those over 50 with urinary incontinence never seeking medical help.

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Although incontinence is often seen as a problem that primarily affects older people, younger people also experience complaints such as an overactive bladder.

This delay is often attributed to feelings of shame or the misconception that such symptoms are a normal part of aging. The organizers stress that conditions like fecal incontinence and double incontinence, where both urine and feces are involuntarily lost, remain particularly difficult to discuss. Yet, an estimated one in 12 people experience some form of incontinence, significantly impacting their daily lives.

The consequences extend beyond physical discomfort, leading to increased anxiety, depression, avoidance of social activities, and life adjustments centered around toilet access. Societally, the problem contributes to a greater care burden and increased sick leave. "It is important that patients know that they are not alone and that solutions exist," the experts urged, promoting the slogan 'the urgency is real' to encourage open conversation and lower the threshold for seeking professional help.

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It is important that patients know that they are not alone and that solutions exist.