Dr. Mufti Mahmood Advocates for Awareness on Urinary Incontinence

Srinagar, July 27, 2025 — In a pivotal effort to confront the stigma associated with urinary incontinence, Professor Mufti Mahmood Ahmad, a senior urologist at Modern Hospital in Srinagar, has urged for increased public awareness and empathy towards individuals affected by this condition. Speaking at a recent patient awareness program, Dr. Mahmood highlighted the urgent need for open discussions surrounding urinary incontinence, which affects over 400 million individuals globally, including one in five women and one in ten men.

Dr. Mahmood's call to action comes against the backdrop of a significant public health concern. According to a 2023 report by the World Health Organization (WHO), urinary incontinence is often underdiagnosed and stigmatized, leading to detrimental consequences on the quality of life for many sufferers. He stated, “Incontinence is not just a medical issue—it’s a quality-of-life issue,” emphasizing that the condition is frequently misperceived as an inevitable part of aging.

The senior urologist described urinary incontinence as the involuntary leakage of urine, typically caused by factors such as aging, recurrent urinary infections, particular medications, or childbirth. He cautioned against the normalization of urinary changes associated with aging, advocating for thorough evaluations to rule out serious underlying conditions. “Any deviation in urinary patterns should be thoroughly evaluated to rule out underlying bladder conditions,” Dr. Mahmood remarked.

The impact of urinary incontinence extends beyond physical health, often leading to social isolation, diminished confidence, and emotional distress among those affected. Dr. Mahmood pointed out that many individuals alter their daily habits, which can result in long-term psychological consequences. “Treating urinary changes as a natural part of aging is a dangerous assumption,” he added, underscoring the importance of seeking medical advice without shame.

He concluded his address with a strong message: “It’s time to bring incontinence out of the shadows. Let’s talk about it, treat it, and stop suffering in silence.” This appeal for awareness seeks not only to destigmatize the condition but also to encourage early diagnosis and intervention, which can significantly improve the quality of life for affected individuals.

In a broader context, the issue of urinary incontinence reflects a larger public health challenge that warrants attention from healthcare professionals, policymakers, and society at large. The need for educational initiatives and support systems is imperative to ensure that those suffering from this condition receive the understanding and care they deserve. Dr. Mahmood's initiative serves as a crucial step towards fostering a more informed and compassionate approach to urinary health.