World Continence Week (WCW), taking place June 15–21, 2026, is a global initiative dedicated to raising awareness of bladder and bowel disorders, chronic pelvic pain, and other conditions that affect millions of people worldwide. IUGA is proud to support this important campaign, which aims to reduce stigma, improve understanding, and advocate for better care for those living with continence-related conditions.
Urinary incontinence (UI) alone affects an estimated 55–60 million people across Europe. Despite its prevalence and substantial impact on quality of life, continence health remains underrecognized within major European Union health policy frameworks. World Continence Week provides an opportunity to increase awareness, encourage open conversations, and promote action at both the clinical and policy levels.
Advancing Continence Health in Europe
As part of World Continence Week 2026, IUGA is pleased to support the European Association of Urology (EAU) and the MEP Interest Group on Continence Health in their efforts to advance awareness and policy action across Europe.
On June 24, 2026, patients, healthcare professionals, policymakers, and advocacy organizations will gather at the European Parliament in Brussels to discuss the growing burden of urinary incontinence and the need for coordinated action.
European Parliament Event
Date: June 24, 2026
Time: 3:00–5:00 PM
Location: European Parliament, Brussels, Belgium
The event will focus on:
- Highlighting the realities of living with urinary incontinence alongside other serious health conditions.
- Strengthening recognition of incontinence as a significant comorbidity within non-communicable diseases.
- Promoting coordinated diagnostic, therapeutic, and policy approaches to improve outcomes and reduce the wider societal and economic burden of continence-related conditions.
Continuing the Call to Action
IUGA remains committed to supporting initiatives that improve awareness, education, research, and access to care for patients affected by pelvic floor disorders and incontinence. Through collaboration with healthcare professionals, patient organizations, and policymakers, we can continue working toward greater recognition of continence health as a public health priority.
Want to Know More About Your Pelvic Floor Health?
Check out YourPelvicFloor.org for more information! This dedicated website brings together a wealth of health topics, publications, patient leaflets, patient stories, events, and other resources, all available for free in over 25+ languages. Both patients and practitioners have checked the information provided to ensure it is accurate and easy to understand.