Prostate Cancer and Bladder Leakage: Tips to Live a Fulfilling Lifestyle

If it ain't broke, don't fix it. This philosophy is fine when applied to home improvement, but it isn't a good approach for men's health and wellness. Fortunately, in recent years, male health issues like prostate cancer have received greater attention thanks to more men vocalizing how to live life to the fullest through diagnosis, treatment and recovery. This is good news given that an average of one in six men will experience prostate cancer, according to the American Cancer Society (ACS). In fact, it's one of the most common cancers in American men, with 233,000 new cases estimated to be diagnosed in 2014 alone. "A prostate cancer diagnosis can be difficult for men and their families, but staying positive and being proactive about prostate health can make a big difference in beating the disease and living a full life after remission," says Dr. Jennifer Berman, urologist and Depend brand health expert. The relative five-year survival rate is almost 100 percent, according to the ACS. While survival rates are high, many men experience side effects as a result of prostate cancer treatments, including bowel or erectile dysfunction, fertility loss and urinary incontinence, commonly known as bladder leakage. "Bladder leakage is more common than people think," says Dr. Berman. "In fact, one in four Americans between the ages of 20 and 85 experience it, so there's no need to feel embarrassed or alone. It's important to realize that bladder leakage doesn't have to hold you back or keep you from doing the things you love." Dr. Berman recommends men with bladder leakage have a conversation with their doctor to answer any questions and find ways to continue living active lives, despite the issue. In addition, she offers six tips for living a fulfilling life with bladder leakage: 1. Make stress reduction a priority. Stress can lead to inflammation in our bodies - especially our bladders. Studies have shown that daily meditation can help relax your mind and body, decreasing the excessive nerve stimulation to the bladder that causes bladder leakage. 2. Commit to a regular exercise routine that includes cardio and strength training. Exercise, especially when focused on the pelvic floor muscles, can improve overall urinary tract health as well as bladder function and control. 3. Try products that provide a discreet and comfortable fit, like Depend Underwear with Fit-Flex protection, which features more Lycra strands to help give men the freedom and confidence they need every day. 4. A healthy diet can help you prevent or avoid additional loss of bladder control. Steer clear of foods and beverages that are known to irritate the bladder, such as caffeine, alcohol and refined sugars. A diet rich in leafy green vegetables and fruits will improve your overall health, energy, mood and bladder health. 5. Make time for intimacy. Sexual activity increases blood flow and nerve stimulation to the pelvic region while improving bladder muscle strength and control. Visit www.Depend.com for more information about bladder leakage.