Final answer:
Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are commonly caused by introducing bacteria from the lower gastrointestinal tract to the urinary tract. Escherichia coli is a common pathogen responsible for UTIs in women, while other conditions like an enlarged prostate or catheter use often lead to UTIs in men.
Step-by-step explanation:
The most common cause of urinary tract infections (UTIs) is the introduction of bacteria from the lower gastrointestinal tract to the urinary tract. In females, this can occur due to fecal contamination resulting from the close proximity of the anus and the urethra. Escherichia coli, a bacteria commonly found in the digestive tract, is the most common pathogen responsible for UTIs in women. In men, UTIs are often associated with other conditions that impair normal bladder emptying, such as an enlarged prostate or the use of urinary catheters.