Every November, the Interstitial Cystitis Association (ICA) and other bladder health organizations mark Bladder Health Month, bringing critical attention to conditions that affect millions of Americans year-round. With weekly themes tied to significant bladder health conditions, Bladder Health Month encourages people to take initiative (e.g., learn more about their bladder health and speak with their healthcare provider (HCP)).
The first week of November centers on interstitial cystitis/bladder pain syndrome (IC/BPS), a debilitating condition that affects an estimated 5.5 million men and women in the U.S. (1,2) Gaps in awareness, education and support mean that many of those millions aren’t diagnosed or receiving effective treatments. Below are several tools for patients and HCPs developed to mark Bladder Health Month and spread the word about IC/BPS, a far-reaching and often life-altering condition.Living with IC/BPS
This 7-minute video tells the story of Amy Macnow, a patient with IC/BPS who has been dealing with the condition for several years. As Amy visits her HCP, Dr. Lenore Ackerman, for a follow-up visit, she narrates how the disease has affected her life and provides some guidance on managing IC/BPS. Dr. Ackerman weighs in with tips for HCPs working with patients with IC/BPS. Read our press release: “Living with IC/BPS” Highlights HCP-Patient Relationships as Key to Successful Diagnosis and Disease Management
Healthcare Provider Tip Sheet
Learn how to recognize the symptoms of IC/BPS, and what steps should be taken for a diagnosis. Also, read about the often-ignored psychological and emotional side effects that accompany physical symptoms, and learn how to best manage them for a productive HCP-patient relationship.
LEARN MOREPatient Tip Sheet
Gain an understanding of the basics of IC/BPS, including signs and symptoms of the condition, how to choose a HCP, and what to expect after receiving a diagnosis.
Learn More
Learn more about IC/BPS through the Interstitial Cystitis Association (ICA).
References
1. Berry SH, Elliott MN, Suttorp M, et al. Prevalence of symptoms of bladder pain syndrome/interstitial cystitis among adult females in the United States. J Urol. 2011;186:540-544.
2. Suskind AM, Berry SH, Ewing BA, et al. The prevalence and overlap of interstitial cystitis/bladder pain syndrome and chronic prostatitis/chronic pelvic pain syndrome in men; results of the RAND interstitial cystitis epidemiology (RICE) male study. J Urol. 2013;189:141-145.