Weight Loss and Overactive Bladder

Purpose of Review

We sought to explore the relationship between obesity and overactive bladder (OAB) and to review the available literature that supports weight loss as a means to alter OAB severity and bother.

Recent Findings

Over the past 15 years, several population-based human studies and animal models have identified obesity as a risk factor for the development of OAB. The bariatric surgery literature demonstrates that substantial weight loss following some form of gastric bypass can lead to at least subjective improvement in OAB symptoms. Ongoing research seeks to further elucidate the role of anti-inflammatory agents, anti-oxidants, and β3-receptor agonists in obesity-associated OAB.

Summary

The currently available literature has identified obesity as a risk factor for the development OAB. Data taken from the bariatric surgery literature indicates that surgical weight loss can lead to a significant improvement in OAB severity and bother. Future studies will determine if less dramatic weight changes can lead to significant and sustained changes in OAB parameters. Based on the available literature, clinicians should start to counsel their obese patients with OAB that weight loss can help improve their OAB severity and bother.