The Prevalence of Overactive Bladder Syndrome and Urinary Incontinence in Young and Middle Aged Women

ABSTRACT

PURPOSE: We performed a pilot survey via internet to assess the prevalence of overactive bladder syndrome (OABs) and urinary incontinence(UI) in young and middle aged women. MATERIALS AND METHODS: From 22 April 2002 to 5 May 2002, a total of 3,372(89.8%) women(mean age 26.3+/-4.8 years) among 3,757 participants completed a questionnaire via internet web site. They were divided into 3 groups those who had OABs(group 1), who had UI(group 2), and controls who had neither. The factors related to OABs and UI were analyzed by multiple logistic regression analysis. RESULTS: Of 3,372 respondents, the prevalence of OABs and UI in young women was 429(12.7%) and 707 (21%), respectively. The factors related to OABs were history of urinary tract infection and family history. The factors related to UI were age, occupation, history of urinary tract infection, family history, and parity. CONCLUSIONS: The symptoms suggestive of OABs and UI are highly prevalent in young and middle aged women. So, effective healthcare polices and prompt management about OABs and UI should be concerned.