In Louth, 84 men are diagnosed with prostate cancer annually, according to the National Cancer Registry of Ireland. Alarmingly, half of these men will experience urinary incontinence (UI) post-treatment. This grim statistic underscores the urgent need for better understanding and facilities across Ireland. The 'Dispose with Dignity' campaign, launched by hygiene services company phs Group, aims to tackle the stigma surrounding male incontinence and improve access to hygiene facilities in public men's toilets. The campaign is supported by the Irish Cancer Society and the Irish Men's Sheds Association. New research reveals that a lack of suitable toilet facilities and low awareness about male UI are significantly impacting men's mental health and daily lives. According to the European Association of Urology, half of all men who undergo prostate removal will experience UI. A study involving 702 men found that: Over half (52%) feel anxious about public outings due to inadequate toilet facilities. Almost two-thirds (65%) have been negatively affected by the lack of accessible toilets, with 14% reporting feelings of depression. Among younger men (18-34), depression rises to 24%, and anxiety to 41%. Over half (54%) have struggled to find suitable bins for incontinence pad disposal, with nearly half (46%) resorting to disabled toilets or flushing products. A further 72% say public understanding of the condition remains poor. Eoin Foley, managing director of phs Group Ireland, emphasizes the company's commitment to addressing male incontinence stigma and improving men's independence. Gerry Connolly, a semi-retired salesman from Donegal, shares his experience with prostate cancer and UI. He highlights the lack of awareness and the embarrassment it caused, leading to social isolation. Connolly advocates for the availability of bins in men's cubicles to enhance dignity and privacy. Michelle Lonergan, Cancer Awareness Nurse at the Irish Cancer Society, emphasizes the need for greater awareness and better facilities to support men's dignity during and after cancer treatment. Rebecca McLaughlin, National Health & Well Being lead at the Irish Men's Sheds Association, welcomes the campaign's collaboration with the Irish Cancer Society and phs Group, aiming to provide an empathetic, practical, and sustainable solution to this challenging topic.
