Holtedahl K, Hunskaar S. Prevalence, 1-year incidence and factors associated with urinary incontinence: a population based study of women 50-74 years of age in primary care.
Maturitas 1998;
28:205-11. [PMID:
9571595 DOI:
10.1016/s0378-5122(97)00085-6]
[Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES
To study prevalence, incidence, remissions and factors associated with urinary incontinence in women 50-74 years of age.
METHODS
Cross-sectional study of prevalence and associated factors and a 1-year prospective study of incidence and remissions. A random sample of 698 women were invited for a gynecological examination in general practice in three municipalities in Northern Norway in 1994-1995. Five hundred and seven (73%) met for the first consultation, 489 of them for the second one. Questionnaires were answered by women and doctors during consultations at inclusion and 1 year later. Prevalence was estimated at three levels of evidence.
RESULTS
Any leakage was reported by 47% and regularly by 31%. For 19%, leakage was objectively demonstrated and claimed to be a social or hygienic problem. Incontinence was associated with high body weight, with poor ability to contract pelvic floor muscles and with previous gynecological operations excluding hysterectomy. Three women (0.6%) developed regular incontinence during the year of investigation. There was no convincing case of spontaneous remission.
CONCLUSION
Urinary incontinence is very frequent in women aged 50-74 years and about one in five are potential patients needing treatment. Urinary incontinence is an enduring condition with little tendency for remission without treatment.
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