Does Diabetes Make You More Likely to Get Utis?
Medically reviewed by Linda Girgis | MD, Girgis Family Medicine on August 21st, 2026.
Yes, diabetes significantly increases your risk of urinary tract infections by 2-3 times compared to people without diabetes. High blood sugar levels create an ideal environment for bacterial growth in the urinary tract, as glucose in urine feeds harmful bacteria like E. coli. Additionally, diabetes can weaken your immune system's ability to fight off infections and may cause incomplete bladder emptying, allowing bacteria to multiply. Women with diabetes are particularly vulnerable, with studies showing UTI rates of 15-20% annually compared to 6% in non-diabetic women. Poor blood sugar control further amplifies this risk, making glucose management essential for UTI prevention.
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