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Impact of Overactive Bladder on Quality of Life for Cancer Survivors

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Abstract

Purpose of Review

Overactive bladder (OAB), defined as urinary urgency and frequency, often associated with urgency urinary incontinence, can present debilitating symptoms after cancer therapies. Herein, we examine associations between various malignancies and their treatments in the context of the impact of OAB symptoms.

Recent Findings

Development and impact of bladder storage symptoms including urgency incontinence following treatment of cancers of the bladder, prostate, female reproductive organs, and even breast cancer have been demonstrated in contemporary cross-sectional studies and systematic reviews. Bladder dysfunction associated with cancer therapy is consistently associated with overall diminished quality of life. Most of the published data details oral pharmaceutical interventions and sparse evidence exists regarding the use of third-line therapies for management of OAB in cancer survivors.

Summary

Understanding the impact of OAB on quality of life after cancer treatment is important for patient counseling and assistance in management of distressing bladder storage symptoms. There remains ample opportunity for future research to better define strategies for diagnosis and treatment of OAB in cancer survivors.

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Papers of particular interest, published recently, have been highlighted as: • Of importance •• Of major importance

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  1. Department of Urology, Vanderbilt Medical Center, A-1302 Medical Center North, Nashville, TN, 37232, USA

    Rosa Park & Melissa R. Kaufman

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Correspondence to Melissa R. Kaufman.

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Park, R., Kaufman, M.R. Impact of Overactive Bladder on Quality of Life for Cancer Survivors. Curr Bladder Dysfunct Rep 18, 244–249 (2023). https://doi.org/10.1007/s11884-023-00707-5

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