SCA, global hygiene company and the manufacturer of TENA Incontinence Pads and Pants has announced it’s sponsorship of World Continence Week. An annual initiative coordinated by the International Continence Society, World Continence Week takes place this week (June 18-24, 2012) with the goal of bringing together communities around the world to build a better understanding of incontinence through local events and online educational resources.

An estimated 33 million men and women experience incontinence in the U.S. alone, and a staggering number of them are unaware of the treatment options available to them. The TENA brand and the International Continence Society share a commitment to encourage a dialogue around the issue of incontinence in order to help eliminate stereotypes and provide resources for individuals experiencing the condition.

Less than half of women and men with urinary incontinence seek medical care. Incontinence can be caused by other medical problems, addressing it early can help prevent serious medical problems.

"Through public awareness and education, the International Continence Society and World Continence Week are helping individuals worldwide to address good bladder health and overcome the myths and stigma surrounding incontinence," said Cheryle Gartley, founder and president of the Simon Foundation for Continence and co-author of the brand new book, Managing Life with Incontinence. "Incontinence is one of the last taboos in health care, and awareness and education are keys to defeating the stigma surrounding this symptom and helping to motivate those experiencing incontinence to seek medical help and to understand the many treatment options available today."

For those experiencing the unexpected leak, TENA offers the following healthy habits to live fearlessly:

- Don't ignore irregularities - Since incontinence can be a symptom of other problems in the body, it's important to have it treated early. If something seems irregular, be sure to update your physician.

- Get educated on your options - Understanding the options available for improving your day-to-day life can help you select the course of action that is right for you -- whether it be one or a combination of lifestyle changes, medications, surgery or specially designed personal care protection products.

- Drink adequately - Don't avoid drinking enough water when experiencing incontinence. Drink 6-8 cups of fluids per day, more when it is hot or when exercising.

- Don't ignore the need to go - Most people empty the bladder about every 3-4 hours during the day (4-8 times a day).

- Dietary changes can help - Foods and beverages containing caffeine, alcohol, and cigarettes can increase risk, while proper intake of vitamin D can help protect against incontinence.

More tips can also be found on our help and advice pages  - /help-and-advice.html