Final answer:
Females are more prone to UTIs due to the shorter and closer proximity of their urethra to the anus. Fecal contamination can introduce bacteria and cause UTIs. Other factors like hormonal changes and certain conditions also contribute to the risk.
Step-by-step explanation:
Female individuals are more prone to getting urinary tract infections (UTIs) due to several factors. The female urethra is shorter and closer to the anus compared to males, increasing the likelihood of contamination by GI tract bacteria. Fecal contamination from the anus can introduce Escherichia coli, a common bacterium from the digestive tract, to the urethra and cause UTIs. Other factors such as hormonal changes, weakened immune systems in the elderly, and certain conditions like prostatitis or kidney stones can also contribute to the increased risk of UTIs.