Association between Body Mass Index and Recurrent Urinary Tract Infections: A Cross-Sectional Study in a Tertiary Care Hospital

Abstract

Background: Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are common infections, with obesity emerging as a significant risk factor for recurrence. Obesity-related immune dysfunction, bladder abnormalities, and microbial changes may contribute to increased UTI susceptibility. This study aims to assess the prevalence of recurrent UTIs across BMI categories and explore their association at a tertiary care hospital in Sylhet, Bangladesh. Objectives: To evaluate the association between BMI and recurrent UTIs, determine prevalence across BMI categories, and identify contributing risk factors. Methods: This cross-sectional study, conducted at Jalalabad Ragib Rabeya Medical College Hospital from January to December 2022, included 276 adult UTI patients with documented BMI. Data were collected using structured questionnaires and medical records. Statistical analyses, including chi-square and t-tests, assessed BMI-UTI associations. Ethical approval was obtained, and patient confidentiality was ensured. Results: The study of 276 individuals showed a mean age of 52.3 years, with a female predominance (60.1%). The majority had a normal BMI (45.7%), while 36.2% were overweight or obese. Recurrent UTIs were most prevalent among overweight individuals (35.6%). Hypertension (45.3%) and diabetes (38.4%) were common comorbidities. Dysuria (65.2%) was the most reported UTI symptom. Obese patients required extended antibiotic treatment alongside weight management strategies. Conclusion: This study highlights a significant association between Body Mass Index (BMI) and the prevalence of recurrent urinary tract infections (UTIs).