While it may never cross the mind of someone who hasn’t been affected, research published by PHS, shows that there are a significant number of men in Ireland suffering from urinary incontinence.
The proportion of those afflicted by UI was found to be highest in the 55-64 age group with 37% of men reporting symptoms.
According to the white paper: “Urinary incontinence in men can develop as a result of cancer itself or as a side effect of treatment. It is a relatively common complication in patients with prostate, bladder, rectal or colorectal cancer”.
These issues were brought to the attention of Waterford Council by Sinn Féin Councillor Kate O’Mahoney, who called for sanitary bins to be provided in men’s bathrooms throughout Waterford, in-line with the Dispose with Dignity campaign.
“The Dispose with Dignity campaign supported by the Irish Cancer Society and the Irish Men’s Shed Association calls for the installation of sanitary bins in men’s public bathrooms,” explained Cllr. O’Mahoney.
“This campaign is to raise awareness that cancer urinary incontinence, particularly among men who have undergone prostate cancer treatment. PHS commissioned research and discovered that more than half of men 52%, trying to manage these symptoms after cancer treatment feel anxious about the lack of access to proper facilities when they are out in public,” she said.
The Irish Cancer Society state that one in six men in Ireland will be diagnosed with prostate cancer in their lifetime. So approximately 4,000 are diagnosed per year.
Cllr. O’Mahoney went on to highlight the lack of UI facilities can cause men to avoid participating in everyday activities.
“There is a huge lack of awareness and understanding on this issue and without basic facilities such as sanitary bins and product vending machines in public bathrooms it poses huge consequences for their mental health and wellbeing which can lead them to withdraw from routine activities, social events and sports,” Cllr. O’Mahoney said.
Cllr. O’Mahony also explained that a recent proposal was accepted by Cavan County Council, who agreed to install sanitary bins in male toilets in public buildings such as their libraries and the courthouse.
“I’m asking that Waterford City and County Council can do the same. It might even be a good idea for the Council to reach out to local Men’s Sheds to tackle this issue,” she said.
“Installing these sanitary bins in Men’s public bathrooms is a simple practical step that would make a meaningful difference to those living with incontinence after cancer treatment—it would not only support dignity and independence but also reduce the stigma that still supports this issue,” Cllr. O’Mahoney added.
In reply to these comments, Director of Services, Gabriel Hynes agreed to look into the issue.
“We’ll take away your comments and see what’s feasible, reasonable and won’t create operational issues,” Mr. Hynes said.
AARON KENT
Funded by the Local Democracy Reporting Scheme
