Incidence and risk factors of female urinary incontinence: a 4-year longitudinal study among 24 985 adult women in China

Association between cardiometabolic index and postmenopausal stress urinary incontinence: a cross-sectional study from NHANES 2013 to 2018

BACKGROUND

Stress urinary incontinence (SUI) is a common condition affecting the genitourinary system in postmenopausal women. Obesity and dyslipidemia are recognized as significant factors that contribute to the onset of SUI. The cardiometabolic index (CMI), a reliable indicator of health risks associated with obesity, is crucial in assessing these risks. This study aims to investigate the relationship between CMI and the occurrence of SUI in postmenopausal women across the United States.

METHODS

This cross-sectional study employed data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) conducted between 2013 and 2018, concentrating on postmenopausal women aged 40 years and above in the United States. Multiple regression models were utilized to evaluate the association between CMI and postmenopausal SUI, while controlling for pertinent confounding variables. Smooth curve fitting (SCF) techniques were utilized to evaluate the correlation between postmenopausal SUI incidence and CMI. To enhance the robustness of the findings, analyses of subgroups and assessments of interactions were performed.

RESULTS

542 postmenopausal women participated in the study, with 237 of them indicating the presence of symptoms associated with stress urinary incontinence. The findings from the multiple regression analysis consistently demonstrated a positive correlation between CMI and SUI in all adjusted models. In particular, a one-unit increase in CMI correlated with a 63% greater probability of encountering postmenopausal SUI in fully adjusted models (OR = 1.63, 95% CI: 1.07-2.48). Additionally, a direct correlation was noted between CMI levels and the occurrence of SUI within this population. Subgroup analysis by the number of vaginal deliveries showed a significant interaction (P for interaction = 0.0471).

CONCLUSIONS

The findings emphasize the importance of managing CMI levels to identify postmenopausal women at increased risk for SUI. This study confirms the strong predictive value of CMI for SUI in this population.

Body Mass Index and Depressive Symptoms as Risk Factors for Urinary Incontinence in Women: A Nationally Representative Study

INTRODUCTION AND HYPOTHESIS

Urinary incontinence (UI) is associated with body mass index (BMI) and may be influenced by depressive symptoms. This study was aimed at assessing the relationship between BMI and UI risk and frequency in adult women, with a focus on depressive symptoms, measured by Patient Health Questionnaire-9 (PHQ-9) score, as a potential mediator.

METHODS

Data from 6107 adult women in the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey from 2005 to 2018 were analyzed. Weighted multivariable-adjusted regression analysis determined odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) for BMI-UI associations. Restricted cubic spline (RCS) analysis evaluated nonlinear relationships, and causal mediation analysis examined the mediating role of depressive symptoms. Subgroup analyses were stratified by PHQ-9 score.

RESULTS

Higher BMI was associated with increased UI risk and frequency. When BMI was categorized into quartiles, UI risk progressively increased from Q2 to Q4. In the fully adjusted model, OR for UI risk in Q4 vs Q1 was 2.53 (95% CI 1.83, 3.52; p < 0.001), with a significant trend across quartiles. RCS analysis indicated a nonlinear relationship, with increased UI risk, particularly at BMI levels above 30. Depressive symptoms were independently associated with higher UI risk and frequency, with significant mediation effects. Mediation analysis revealed that PHQ-9 score accounted for approximately 6.8% of the effect of the BMI on UI risk and 6.5% on UI frequency (both p < 0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

Elevated BMI and depressive symptoms are independently associated with increased UI risk and frequency among adult women. The mediation effect of depressive symptoms underscores the importance of addressing mental health and weight management to reduce UI risk. These findings advocate a holistic approach to UI prevention and treatment, integrating physical and mental health strategies.

U‑shaped association between relative fat mass (RFM) and stress urinary incontinence: a cross‑sectional study

BACKGROUND

This study aimed to investigate the relationship between relative fat mass (RFM) and stress urinary incontinence (SUI).

METHODS

This cross-sectional study employed data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES), collected from 2005 to 2018. Weighted logistic regression and smooth curve fitting were employed to evaluate the association between RFM and SUI. Subgroup analyses and interaction tests were performed to validate the robustness of the findings. The predictive effect was evaluated using receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves. Finally, we analyzed the role of RFM in predicting SUI using the Random Forest Variable Importance plot and SHAP Dependence Plot.

RESULTS

Among 32,594 participants aged 20 years and older, 22.94% were diagnosed with SUI. The fully adjusted multivariable model indicated that a higher RFM was associated with an increased risk of developing SUI (OR = 2.42; 95% CI 2.05-2.86). Subgroup analysis and interaction tests were performed to validate this association further. Smoothing curve fitting revealed a U-shaped relationship between RFM and SUI. The ROC curve demonstrated that RFM (AUC = 0.788, 95% CI 0.782-0.793) is a good predictor of SUI. Lastly, the Random Forest Variable Importance plot and SHAP Dependence Plot effectively identified the positive correlation and non-linear relationship between SUI and RFM.

CONCLUSION

A non-linear correlation was observed between elevated RFM and the incidence of SUI. Especially within the female population, an increase in RFM is related to a higher likelihood of SUI, indicating that RFM could be a possible tool for identifying SUI.

Analyzing Online Search Trends for Kidney, Prostate, and Bladder Cancers in China: Infodemiology Study Using Baidu Search Data (2011-2023)

BACKGROUND

Cancers of the bladder, kidney, and prostate are the 3 major genitourinary cancers that significantly contribute to the global burden of disease (GBD) and continue to show increasing rates of morbidity and mortality worldwide. In mainland China, understanding the cancer burden on patients and their families is crucial; however, public awareness and concerns about these cancers, particularly from the patient's perspective, remain predominantly focused on financial costs. A more comprehensive exploration of their needs and concerns has yet to be fully addressed.

OBJECTIVE

This study aims to analyze trends in online searches and user information-seeking behaviors related to bladder, kidney, and prostate cancers-encompassing descriptive terms (eg, "bladder cancer," "kidney cancer," "prostate cancer") as well as related synonyms and variations-on both national and regional scales. This study leverages data from mainland China's leading search engine to explore the implications of these search patterns for addressing user needs and improving health management.

METHODS

The study analyzed Baidu Index search trends for bladder, kidney, and prostate cancers (from January 2011 to August 2023) at national and provincial levels. Search volume data were analyzed using the joinpoint regression model to calculate annual percentage changes (APCs) and average APCs (AAPCs), identifying shifts in public interest. User demand was assessed by categorizing the top 10 related terms weekly into 13 predefined topics, including diagnosis, treatment, and traditional Chinese medicine. Data visualization and statistical analyses were performed using Prism 9. Results revealed keyword trends, demographic distributions, and public information needs, offering insights into health communication and management strategies based on online information-seeking behavior.

RESULTS

Three cancer topics were analyzed using 39 search keywords, yielding a total Baidu Search Index (BSI) of 43,643,453. From 2011 to 2015, the overall APC was 15.2% (P<.05), followed by -2.8% from 2015 to 2021, and 8.9% from 2021 to 2023, with an AAPC of 4.9%. Bladder, kidney, and prostate cancers exhibited AAPCs of 2.8%, 3.9%, and 6.8%, respectively (P<.05). The age distribution of individuals searching for these cancer topics varied across the topics. Geographically, searches for cancer were predominantly conducted by people from East China, who accounted for approximately 30% of each cancer search query. Regarding user demand, the total BSI for relevant user demand terms from August 2022 to August 2023 was 676,526,998 out of 2,570,697,380 (15.74%), representing only a limited total cancer-related search volume.

CONCLUSIONS

Online searches and inquiries related to genitourinary cancers are on the rise. The depth of users' information demands appears to be influenced by regional economic levels. Cancer treatment decision-making may often involve a family-centered approach. Insights from internet search data can help medical professionals better understand public interests and concerns, enabling them to provide more targeted and reliable health care services.

A comprehensive review of conservative therapies for female stress urinary incontinence: Advancements, efficacy, and future directions

Pelvic floor dysfunction poses a significant challenge to women worldwide. Female urinary incontinence is one of the most prevalent types of pelvic floor dysfunctions, affecting at least 50% of females, particularly those who are pregnant or menopausal. Among the various urinary incontinence subtypes, stress urinary incontinence takes the lead, characterized by involuntary urine leakage during activities that increase intra-abdominal pressure, such as sneezing, coughing, laughing, or exercising. This comprehensive review explores the latest advancements and critical insights into conservative treatments for stress urinary incontinence. Stress urinary incontinence symptoms result in profound physical and psychological consequences for individuals and impose a substantial medical and economic burden on society; however, only 5%-10% seek professional help. This narrative review meticulously examines a spectrum of interventions, ranging from lifestyle modifications to emerging modalities, such as laser treatment and electroacupuncture.

Effects of Urinary Incontinence Subtypes on Quality of Life and Sexual Function among Women Seeking Weight Loss

INTRODUCTION AND HYPOTHESIS

The objective was to detect subtypes of urinary incontinence (UI) and their effects on quality of life (QoL) and sexual function among women seeking weight loss.

METHODS

A cross-sectional study focusing on women seeking weight loss with UI symptoms was carried out. Participants were stratified into three groups: stress UI, urgency UI, and mixed UI groups. The effects of the three groups on QoL and sexual function were compared.

RESULTS

A total of 564 individuals (46.8%) were reported to present with UI symptoms. Among these, 216 (38.3%), 71 (12.6%), and 277 (49.1%) had stress UI, urgency UI, and mixed UI respectively. The severity of UI was greater in the urgency UI and mixed UI groups than in the stress UI group, with varying ratios observed among patients with different severities of UI: stress UI was highest in mild cases, and the mixed UI was highest in moderate or severe cases. Mixed UI had the most detrimental effect on QoL and sexual function. However, after controlling for the severity of UI, mixed UI still had a greater detrimental effect on UI-specific QoL, and no differences were identified among the three groups regarding general QoL or sexual function.

CONCLUSION

This study revealed variations in the constituent ratios of UI subtypes related to the severity of UI and the effects of various UI subtypes on QoL and sexual function among women seeking weight loss. Notably, the mixed UI demonstrated the most severe symptoms and the most detrimental impact, particularly as assessed by UI-specific QoL questionnaires.

Beyond the Visible: The Relationship Between Social Appearance Anxiety, Hopelessness, and Depression in Women with Urinary Incontinence

OBJECTIVE

This study aims to examine the relationship between the severity of urinary incontinence and levels of social appearance anxiety, hopelessness, and depression in women.

METHODS

A total of 393 women participated in this descriptive and correlational study. Data were collected using the Introductory Information Form, Incontinence Severity Index (ISI), Social Appearance Anxiety Scale (SAAS), Beck Hopelessness Scale (BHS), and Beck Depression Inventory (BDI).

RESULTS

Of the participants, 46.3% reported moderate social appearance anxiety, while 25.2% had severe depression. The mean BHS score was 8.80 ± 5.63. No significant correlation was found between the severity of incontinence and social appearance anxiety (p > 0.05). A strong positive correlation was observed between the BDI and BHS scores (p < 0.001). A one-unit increase in age was associated with a 0.172 (B) increase in incontinence severity, and a one-unit increase in BDI score was linked to a 0.137 (B) increase in incontinence severity.

CONCLUSIONS

The results suggest that increasing age is associated with greater severity of urinary incontinence. Higher incontinence severity is also correlated with higher levels of hopelessness and depression. The psychological impact of urinary incontinence on women's mental health should be addressed, and referrals to psychiatric care should be considered when necessary for a comprehensive treatment approach.

Prevalence, determinants and impact of urinary incontinence on quality of life among Palestinian postpartum women: a cross-sectional study

OBJECTIVES

Urinary incontinence (UI) is prevalent among women, particularly during the postpartum period, impacting various aspects of quality of life (QoL). The objectives of this study are to determine the prevalence of postpartum UI among Palestinian women, explore its relationship with delivery mode, identify associated risk factors and assess its impact on QoL.

DESIGN

A cross-sectional study.

SETTING AND PARTICIPANTS

The study targeted postpartum women attending primary healthcare centres in the North West Bank of Palestine. Data were collected using interviewer-administered questionnaires. The primary outcome was the prevalence of postpartum UI, and the secondary outcomes included risk factors associated with UI and its impact on QoL. We used multivariate logistic regression analysis to identify factors associated with UI while adjusting for confounding variables. The Institutional Review Board of An-Najah National University approved the study.

RESULTS

Out of 507 participants, 13.6% (95% CI 10.8% to 16.9%) experienced postpartum UI, with 78.3% reporting moderate-to-severe symptoms. Maternal body mass index (BMI) (adjusted OR (aOR) 1.98; 95% CI 1.1 to 3.7; adjusted p=0.033) and experiencing UI during the last pregnancy (aOR 2.25; 95% CI 1.3 to 3.8; adjusted p=0.003) were significant risk factors for postpartum UI. No significant association was found between the normal vaginal delivery and postpartum UI compared with caesarean section (aOR 1.5; 95% CI 0.90 to 1.5; adjusted p=0.284). Postpartum UI severity significantly correlated with QoL, particularly in social embarrassment (p=0.005), psychosocial impact (p≤0.001) and avoidance and limiting behaviours (p≤0.001).

CONCLUSION

The prevalence of postpartum UI in Palestinian women is consistent with global findings. Experiencing UI during the last pregnancy and higher maternal BMI were identified as key risk factors for postpartum UI. These results highlight the need for early detection, intervention and preventive strategies to mitigate the impact of postpartum UI on QoL.

Urinary incontinence in older adult women: fighting a rising tide

The world's population is rapidly ageing, with conditions such as urinary incontinence, which are especially prevalent among older adults, expected to rise in prevalence as a result. Urinary incontinence is particularly common in older women; however, despite its profound impact on every aspect of women's health and wellbeing, it is often minimised by both individual patients and the wider healthcare system. Francesca Ramadan delves into the prevalence of and psychosocial effects and patient-related factors related to urinary incontinence in older women.

A clinical trial on pelvic floor sensory testing in women with and without stress urinary incontinence

OBJECTIVES

Pelvic floor sensory training is commonly used in clinical practice for the treatment of stress urinary incontinence (SUI); however, there is a lack of comparative studies evaluating pelvic floor sensation between women with SUI and healthy controls. Additionally, normative data for two-point discrimination thresholds in the female pelvic floor region remain scarce. This study aims to compare the results of 4 sensory tests in the pelvic floor region between women with mild SUI and healthy women, in order to provide reference values for two-point discrimination thresholds in this area.

METHODS

From April 1 to October 30, 2023, 108 healthy women [(32.5±3.6) years] and 90 women with mild SUI [(32.9±3.3) years] were recruited from the Third Xiangya Hospital, Central South University. Participants underwent 4 sensory tests in the pelvic floor region: Two-dot discrimination, weight perception, shape recognition, and 9-grid localization. The results were compared between the 2 groups.

RESULTS

Compared with healthy women, those with mild SUI had lower sensitivity and higher thresholds in 2-dot discrimination tests in the pelvic floor region (all P<0.001). No significant differences were found between groups in weight perception, shape recognition, or grid localization tests (P>0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

Women with mild stress urinary incontinence have impaired two-point discrimination ability in the pelvic floor region.

Outcomes of primary transobturator mid-urethral sling surgery in women of different ages

INTRODUCTION

Older age is associated with greater likelihood of urinary incontinence and unmet care needs. It was hypothesized that age might influence clinical and ultrasound outcomes of transobturator mid-urethral sling (TOS) surgery. The aim of this study was to compare 1-year postoperative clinical and ultrasonographic outcomes of TOS surgery among women of different ages.

METHODS

A retrospective analysis of a cohort of women who underwent primary and isolated TOS surgery for uncomplicated urodynamic stress incontinence was undertaken. All women underwent pre-operative and 1-year postoperative evaluations including clinical interview, pelvic examination, urodynamic studies and introital four-dimensional ultrasound. To be eligible for surgery, women needed to be independent in their daily life, and to have an acceptable level of surgical risk on pre-operative assessment. The primary outcome was the rate of stress urinary incontinence (SUI) after surgery. The secondary outcomes comprised postoperative adverse events and ultrasound findings.

RESULTS

In total, 162, 213, 60 and 29 women aged <51, 51-64, 65-74 and ≥75 years, respectively, were included in this study. At 1-year postoperative assessment, older women were more likely to report SUI and bothersome SUI, while the severity of SUI and postoperative adverse events were similar in older women compared with other age groups. Ultrasound revealed that the sling tended to be looser and higher in older women.

CONCLUSION

TOS surgery is effective and safe for women of all ages who are independent in their daily life and who have an acceptable level of surgical risk. The sling tended to be looser and higher in older women.

Incidence and risk factors of female sexual dysfunction in urban and rural China: a 4-year prospective cohort study

This study aimed to investigate the incidence and risk factors for female sexual dysfunction (FSD) in urban and rural China. A prospective cohort study was conducted from February 2014 to January 2016, with follow-up from June to December 2018. Women aged ≽20 years were recruited from urban and rural areas in six provinces of China using a multistage, stratified, cluster sampling method. Sexual function was assessed using the Female Sexual Function Index questionnaire. A total of 16 827 women without sexual dysfunction at baseline participated in this study, 9489 of them (urban, 5321; rural, 4168) who had complete information from baseline to follow-up were included in the final analysis. The rate of follow-up was 68.81%, and the median follow-up time was 4.13 years. The 4-year incidence of FSD was 43.07%, with an incidence density of 12.02 per 100 person-years. In particular, the 4-year incidence and incidence density of FSD were 41.03% and 11.88 per 100 person-years in the urban group and 45.68% and 12.17 per 100 person-years in the rural group. Among women with sexual dysfunction, difficulties in sexual desire, satisfaction, and arousal were the main symptoms. In urban women, the risk factors for FSD included age ≽45 years (adjusted relative risk 1.69, 95% confidence interval 1.57-1.81), hypertension (1.31, 1.14-1.49), previous delivery (1.26, 1.13-1.41), post-menopausal status (1.20, 1.10-1.32), pelvic inflammatory disease (1.13, 1.05-1.21), and multiparity (1.11, 1.03-1.19). In the rural group, the risk factors significantly associated with FSD were age ≽45 years (1.50, 1.40-1.61), previous delivery (1.39, 1.17-1.65), hypertension (1.18, 1.06-1.30), multiparity (1.16, 1.07-1.27), and post-menopausal status (1.15, 1.07-1.23). FSD is a hidden epidemic condition in China, and the development of prevention strategies should consider the distinct risk factors present in rural and urban areas.

Comparative Analysis of the Efficacy of Different Surgical Modalities for the Treatment of Female Stress Urinary Incontinence: A Multicenter Retrospective Study

Objective

To compare the efficacy of autologous fascial retropubic midurethral sling, anterior vaginal wall epithelial flap midurethral suspension, tension-free vaginal tape-obturator and adjustable urethral suspension with a single incision for the treatment of female stress urinary incontinence.

Materials and Methods

A total of 243 SUI patients who were admitted to Minda Hospital of Hubei Minzu University, were chosen and split into four groups based on various surgical techniques: the AFS group (59 cases), TVT-O group (61 cases), epithelial flap group (62 cases) and ASIS group (61 cases). A comparison of four patient groups' quality-of-life scores, urodynamic indices, urethral structure-related indices before and a year after treatment, complication rates and perioperative-related indices.

Results

There was no discernible difference in the treatment outcomes among the four groups(P>0.05). However, the ASIS group exhibited significantly reduced intraoperative hemorrhage, hospitalization duration and operative time compared to the mucosal flap and TVT-O groups(P<0.05). Both the TVT-O and ASIS groups demonstrated significantly higher hospitalization expenditures than the mucosal flap and AFS groups (P<0.05). No significant differences were observed in postoperative indwelling catheterization, IIQ-7 and I-QOL ratings, urodynamic indices or urethral structure-related indexes across the four patient groups(P>0.05). The TVT-O group showed a significantly higher incidence of postoperative medial thigh pain compared to the AFS, mucosal flap, and ASIS groups(P<0.05). Similarly, the AFS group had a significantly greater incidence of postoperative urine retention compared to the mucosal flap, TVT-O, and ASIS groups(P<0.05).

Conclusion

While all four surgical techniques demonstrated good efficacy and improved patients' quality of life, our study suggests that TVT-O had a significantly higher incidence of post-treatment medial thigh pain and ASIS may be a safer and less problematic surgical approach for the treatment of female SUI. This has important therapeutic implications.

Development and validation of a risk prediction model for postpartum urinary incontinence in primiparas with singleton pregnancies: a multicenter clinical investigation

Background

Postpartum urinary incontinence (UI) is a serious condition that significantly affects the quality of life. Several studies have demonstrated that it is associated with pelvic floor dysfunction. This study aimed to develop and validate a UI risk prediction model to identify primiparas with singleton pregnancies at high risk.

Methods

A multistage stratified random sampling process was used. UI was measured using the International Standard Consultation on Incontinence Questionnaire Form (a modified Bristol questionnaire, ICIQ-FLUTS). Records of 1,340 primiparas with singleton pregnancies were reviewed, and data were collected from January 2014 to December 2014 in multiple centers. A univariate logistic regression analysis was performed, followed by a multivariable logistic regression analysis of the data. Using bootstrap resampling, we constructed a nomogram to assess postpartum UI risk.

Results

A total of 1,340 patients were enrolled, including 345 with postpartum UI and 995 with non-postpartum UI. The occurrence of postpartum UI was significantly related to the mode of delivery, family history of UI, coffee or tea consumption, antenatal UI, and frequent cough. The nomogram exhibited good discriminatory ability with a C-index of 0.718 (95% confidence interval: 0.684-0.752) and a bootstrap-corrected C-index of 0.716. Additionally, the calibration curve demonstrated that the predicted outcomes aligned well with the actual observations. Ultimately, the decision curve analysis indicated that the nomogram exhibited favorable clinical applicability.

Conclusion

The decision curve analysis suggests that the nomogram could provide clinical value. The clinician will then feel more confident about making clinical recommendations regarding postpartum UI screening for primiparous women with singleton pregnancies.

Association between lipid accumulation products and stress urinary incontinence: a cross-sectional study from NHANES 2005 to 2018

BACKGROUND

Stress urinary incontinence (SUI), a common disorder of the pelvic floor, often results in anxiety, poor quality of life, and psychological issues among its sufferers. The relationship between lipid accumulation products (LAP) and stress-related urine incontinence remains unclear. This research aimed to investigate any possible correlation between the risk of SUI and the level of lipid accumulation products.

METHODS

For this cross-sectional research, people with SUI who were 20 years of age or older were recruited using information from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) from 2005 to 2018. A weighted multivariate logistic regression model was used to evaluate the findings. As a potential biomarker, lipid accumulation product levels were sorted among individuals in ascending order and subjected to a trend test (P for trend). Additionally, a nonlinear analysis was conducted using smooth curve-fitting methods. Lipid accumulation products' effectiveness in predicting SUI was evaluated using receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves. Finally, a subgroup analysis was performed to confirm that the connection between SUI and lipid accumulation products was consistent across all demographic groups.

RESULTS

A thorough survey performed on 14,945 participants indicated that 23.61% of the respondents had SUI. A noteworthy association was observed between higher lipid accumulation product values and a greater probability of SUI in multivariate logistic regression analysis. Specifically, the stratification of lipid accumulation products into quartiles demonstrated a substantial positive correlation between the upper and lower quartiles, as evidenced by an elevated odds ratio for SUI (OR = 1.92; 95%CI 1.51-2.44; P < 0.0001). The subgroup analysis supported link consistency across all cohorts under investigation. Finally, the ROC curve indicated that lipid accumulation products (AUC = 0.67, 95%CI 0.654-0.690) had a superior predictive effect on the likelihood of SUI.

CONCLUSIONS

Increased lipid accumulation product values are associated with a higher chance of SUI in adult participants. This suggests that lipid accumulation products could be a valuable marker for detecting SUI, offering new perspectives for its evaluation and treatment.

Efficacy and safety of gefapixant in women with chronic cough and cough-induced stress urinary incontinence: a phase 3b, randomised, multicentre, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial

BACKGROUND

Approximately two-thirds of women with chronic cough have cough-induced stress urinary incontinence (CSUI). We aimed to evaluate the efficacy and safety of gefapixant in reducing CSUI episodes in women with refractory or unexplained chronic cough.

METHODS

This phase 3b, double-blind, randomised, placebo-controlled trial done at 90 sites in 12 countries enrolled women aged 18 years or older who had chronic cough for at least 1 year, a diagnosis of refractory or unexplained chronic cough, a cough severity visual analogue scale score of 40 mm or more (100 mm maximum), and CSUI for 3 months or more. Participants were randomised 1:1 to oral gefapixant or placebo for 12 weeks. The primary outcome was percentage change from baseline in daily CSUI episodes (7-day average) at week 12. This study is registered with ClinicalTrials.gov (NCT04193176).

FINDINGS

From May 10, 2020, to Sept 2, 2022, 375 participants were randomised to and treated with gefapixant 45 mg twice daily (n=185) or placebo (n=190). Mean age was 56·4 years (SD 11·4), with mean chronic cough duration of 5·2 years (SD 6·6) and SUI duration of 4·0 years (SD 5·9). Least-squares mean percentage change from baseline in daily CSUI episodes was -52·8% (95% CI -58·4 to -47·1%) for gefapixant and -41·1% (-46·7 to -35·4%) for placebo (estimated treatment difference: -11·7% [95% CI -19·7 to -3·7]; p=0·004). 129 (70%) of 185 participants who received gefapixant and 71 (37%) of 190 participants who received placebo had at least one adverse event. Safety and tolerability were consistent with previous trials of gefapixant; the most frequent adverse events were taste related.

INTERPRETATION

Gefapixant 45 mg twice daily is the first treatment to show efficacy versus placebo in reducing CSUI episodes in participants with refractory or unexplained chronic cough.

FUNDING

Merck Sharp & Dohme, a subsidiary of Merck & Co.

Female urinary incontinence in China after 15 years' efforts: Results from large-scale nationwide surveys

Urinary incontinence (UI) is a disease that quietly yet seriously impacts women's health and represents a global health burden that is often neglected. This study aims to systematically assess the prevalence and dynamics of female UI in China, and can inform further policies and have international implications. This study used three nationwide investigations: A national cross-sectional survey in 2021; another nationwide cross-sectional survey in 2006; and data regarding the institutions and physicians providing pelvic floor rehabilitation services from 2005 to 2019. The weighted prevalence of female UI and its subtypes, including stress UI (SUI), urgency UI (UUI), and mixed UI (MUI), were estimated as primary outcomes. Knowledge, attitude and care-seeking behaviors of UI were evaluated. It was found that the weighted prevalence of female UI was 16.0 % (95% CI, 13.3 %-19.1%) with SUI remaining the predominant subtype (7.0%) in 2021, followed by MUI (6.5%) and UUI (1.9%). The estimated absolute number of Chinese adult women with UI was 85.8 million in 2021. 52.7% (95% CI, 45.9%-59.4 %) of women were aware that UI was a medical condition, and only 10.1% of women with UI sought health care. After 15 years of development, there were 8400 pelvic floor rehabilitation institutions and nearly 10,000 relevant physicians in China-they were found to be associated with UI prevalence. The UI prevalence in China was significantly lower in 2021 compared to that in 2006. Despite the achievement, UI remains a public health problem, especially given China's fast aging and three-child policy. More innovations, especially those that can facilitate care seeking, are needed to address this prevalent yet treatable condition.

The incidence of urinary incontinence in Chinese hypertensive women and the relationship between hypertension and urinary incontinence

OBJECTIVES

To determine the incidence of UI (urinary incontinence) and its subtypes in hypertensive women and examine the association between hypertension and new-onset UI.

STUDY DESIGN

We conducted a cohort study on women aged ≥20 years in six regions of China. This cohort study was carried out from 2014 to 2016 at baseline, with follow-up completed in 2018. Information on sociodemographic characteristics, physiological and health behaviours were collected. We calculated the standardized person-year incidence of UI in hypertensive women, and used logistic regression to evaluate the association between hypertension and UI and its subtypes.

RESULTS

The standardized incidence of UI, stress UI (SUI), urgency UI (UUI), and mixed UI (MUI) in hypertensive women was 32.2, 21.9, 4.1, and 6.1 per 1000 person-years. Compared with normotensive women, the unadjusted and adjusted OR (odd ratio) for UI in hypertensive women was 2.62 (95 % confidence interval [CI], 2.16-3.18) and 1.70 (95 % CI, 1.14-2.53), respectively; The unadjusted and adjusted OR for SUI in women with hypertension was 2.44 (95 % CI, 1.92-3.09) and 2.60 (95 % CI, 1.68-4.04), respectively; The unadjusted and adjusted OR for UUI in women with hypertension was 2.80 (95 % CI, 1.79-4.37) and 0.54 (95 % CI, 0.13-3.66), respectively; The unadjusted and adjusted OR for MUI in women with hypertension was 2.49 (95 % CI, 1.92-3.09) and 0.60 (95 % CI, 0.19-1.91), respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

The incidence of UI in hypertensive women was 32.2/1000 person-years. Hypertension was an independent risk factor for new-onset UI and SUI in Chinese adult women.

Association between weight-adjusted waist index and overactive bladder syndrome among adult women in the United States: a cross-sectional study

PURPOSE

The weight-adjusted waist index (WWI) is a recently developed index for measuring obesity. The aim of this study was to investigate the association between WWI levels and overactive bladder (OAB) in a nationally representative population.

METHODS

This cross-sectional study used data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) database between 2007 and 2016. OAB was defined as the Overactive Bladder Syndrome Symptom Score (OABSS, score ≥ 3). The WWI index was calculated as the square root of waist circumference (WC, cm) divided by body weight (kg). We used weighted logistic regression models to assess the relationship between the WWI index and OAB in adult women. The reliability of the findings was assessed using restricted cubic spline, subgroup analysis.

RESULTS

A total of 10,563 individuals were included in the study, and the prevalence of OAB was 18.6%. Higher WWI was associated with an increased risk of overactive bladder syndrome. In model 1 with unadjusted variables (OR = 1.148; 95% CI = 1.148-1.149, p < 0.001), model 2 (OR = 1.253; 95% CI = 1.253-1.254, p < 0.001) and model 3 with fully adjusted variables (OR = 1.215; 95% CI = 1.214-1.215, p < 0.001) in which the association was significant. The results of the subgroup analyses showed that age stratification and stroke status could modify this association between WWI and OAB. Restricted cubic spline showed a nonlinear relationship between WWI and OAB (p for nonlinear < 0.05).

CONCLUSION

Weight-adjusted waist circumference index (WWI) values are positively associated with the risk of developing OAB in adult women in the United States, but further studies are needed to elucidate the causal relationship between WWI and OAB.

Association between serum cotinine levels and urinary incontinence in adults in the United States: a population-based cross-sectional analysis

Environmental tobacco smoke (ETS) exposure has been shown to be associated with a variety of diseases, but evidence regarding the association between it and urinary incontinence (UI) is limited. Cotinine, a metabolite of nicotine in the human body, can more accurately quantify the level of human exposure to tobacco smoke. The study utilized data from seven survey cycles (2007-March 2020 Pre-pandemic) of the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) program. Weighted multivariable logistic regression analysis, subgroup analysis, interaction tests, smooth curve fitting, and threshold effect models were used to analyze the relationship between serum cotinine and UI. Additionally, a 1:1 nearest neighbor propensity score matching (PSM) method was employed to minimize the impact of confounding factors. Before and after PSM, serum cotinine levels were higher in individuals with UI than those without (P < 0.05). Both before and after PSM, UI was positively correlated with serum cotinine levels, with a significantly increased risk of urinary incontinence when serum cotinine levels were in the Q3 range (before PSM: OR = 1.89, 95% CI = 1.59-2.24; after PSM: OR = 1.60, 95% CI = 1.28-2.00). Smooth curve fitting before and after PSM showed an approximate J-shaped non-linear dose-response relationship between log-transformed serum cotinine levels and UI. This study indicates that among American adults, there is a positive relationship between serum cotinine levels and UI, which is also significant in self-reported non-smoking populations. Therefore, reducing exposure to environmental tobacco smoke (e.g., avoiding second-hand smoke) in work and daily life may help alleviate the occurrence of UI, and serum cotinine levels have the potential to be a tool for predicting the degree of risk of developing UI.

Care needs for urinary incontinence in older adults: Latent profile analysis

AIM

This study utilized latent profile analysis to investigate care needs subgroups among older adults with urinary incontinence.

METHODS

The "Elderly Urinary Incontinence Care Needs Inventory" surveyed 510 participants in two Guangzhou City hospitals from July 2022 to June 2023. Latent profile analysis created a classification model, and variance and correlation analysis assessed influencing factors.

RESULTS

A total of 510 older adults with urinary incontinence participated. The standardized total care needs score was 78.77 ± 5.03, with variations across dimensions: social participation needs scored (71.16 ± 10.32), daily life care needs (78.80 ± 5.51), medical care needs (77.33 ± 12.17), psychological comfort needs (76.97 ± 6.51) and health education needs scored highest (82.67 ± 6.77). Three distinct profiles emerged: "medium," "high SPN-PCN" and "high DLCN-MCN-HEN". The majority belonged to the "high SPN-PCN" profile. Significant correlations were found with age, education, leaks and frequency of micturitions.

CONCLUSION

Research findings showed the existence of three distinct categories, with a notable majority of participants belonging to the "high SPN-PCN" group. The significance of having these classes identified lies in the move away from a one-size-fits-all approach to a more nuanced understanding of care needs. Customized nursing interventions can be devised based on specific factors, such as age, education level, urinary incontinence-related symptoms and potential category. For instance, for the "high SPN-PCN" group, our nursing strategy can encompass heightened psychological support and expanded opportunities for social engagement.Furthermore, in the training and education of healthcare professionals, recognizing and meeting the needs of each potential category of older adults might require more attention. Geriatr Gerontol Int 2024; 24: 758-765.

Whole body vibration training promotes proprioceptive pathway for the treatment of stress urinary incontinence in rats

Background

Stress urinary incontinence (SUI) is the most ubiquitous form of urinary incontinence in women. The therapeutic management of patients with SUI is challenging. The aim of this study is to evaluate the efficacy of whole body vibration training (WBVT) for SUI.

Methods

Thirty-five female rats were randomly divided into a sham group (Sham group, n=5), SUI + WBVT group (n=15) and SUI + whole body rest group (SUI + WBR group, n=15). The SUI + WBVT group was trained as follows: frequency 30 Hz, amplitude four mm, one min/repeat, four min rest, repeated 10 times, five days/week. After the intervention, five rats were taken on the 7th, 14th and 21st day to observe the urodynamic changes, levator ani muscle and dorsal root ganglia (DRG) morphology, and to observe the expression of neurotrophic factor-3/tyrosine protein kinase C (NT-3/TrkC) by Western blot.

Results

The urodynamic results showed that the difference in bladder leak point pressure/abdominal leak point pressure (BLPP/ALPP) between the Sham group and the SUI + WBR group was statistically significant (P<0.001) on 7th day, indicating successful modeling. The BLPP/ALPP of the SUI + WBVT group and the SUI + WBR group improved on 7th, 14th, and 21st day, and the BLPP/ALPP of SUI + WBVT group was higher than the SUI + WBR group. Compared with the Sham group, pathological changes appeared in the muscle shuttles in the SUI + WBVT group and SUI + WBR group. Western blot showed a gradual up-regulation of NT-3/TrkC.

Conclusions

WBVT can be used to treat SUI by affecting the expression of NT-3/TrkC, improving the structural morphology of the proprioceptors, and restoring the urinary control function. This study provides evidence for the clinical practice of WBVT. Future studies could further refine the behavioral and electrophysiological aspects of the assessment.

Care Needs of Older Adults With Urinary Incontinence: A Cross-Sectional Study

PURPOSE

To explore care requirements of older adults with urinary incontinence (UI) and contributing factors.

METHOD

This cross-sectional study used the Older Adults Urinary Incontinence Care Needs Inventory to survey participants with UI in three large-scale tertiary hospitals located in Guangzhou City, China, from January 2023 to November 2023. Statistical analyses, including analysis of variance, t tests, correlation analyses, and linear regression models, were conducted to assess factors influencing participants' care needs.

RESULTS

A total of 530 older adults with UI participated in the survey and mean standardized score for overall care needs was 78.65 (SD = 5.01), with mean scores for each dimension ranging from 70.88 (SD = 10.55) for social participation needs to 82.45 (SD = 7.11) for health education needs. Factors that were found to influence incontinence care needs in older adults included age, literacy level, number of leaks, and type of disease (F = 37.07, adjusted R2 = 0.290, p < 0.001).

CONCLUSION

Comprehensive care for older adults with UI, encompassing physiological, psychological, and social aspects, is crucial. It is essential to tailor care to individual needs and characteristics, taking into account factors, such as age and education, to ensure effective care. [Journal of Gerontological Nursing, 50(5), 43-49.].

Development and Validation of a Risk Prediction Model for Female Stress Urinary Incontinence in Rural Fujian, China

Purpose

With China's rapidly aging population and the rising proportion of obese people, an increase in the number of women suffering from urinary incontinence (UI) is to be expected. In order to identify high-risk groups before leakage occurs, we aimed to develop and validate a model to predict the risk of stress UI (SUI) in rural women.

Patients and methods

This study included women aged 20-70 years in rural Fujian who participated in an epidemiologic survey of female UI conducted between June and October 2022. Subsequently the data was randomly divided into training and validation sets in a ratio of 7:3. Univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses were used to identify independent risk factors as well as to further construct a nomogram for risk prediction. Finally, concordance index (C-index), calibration curve and decision curve analysis were applied to evaluate the performance of the predictive models.

Results

A total of 5290 rural females were enrolled, of whom 771 (14.6%) had SUI. Age, body mass index (BMI), postmenopausal status, number of vaginal deliveries, vaginal delivery of large infant, constipation and family history of pelvic organ prolapse (POP) and SUI were included in the nomogram. C-index of this prediction model for the training and validation sets was 0.835 (95% confidence interval [CI] = 0.818-0.851) and 0.829 (95% CI = 0.796-0.858), respectively, and the calibration curves and decision analysis curves for both the training and validation sets showed that the model was well-calibrated and had a positive net benefit.

Conclusion

This model accurately estimated the SUI risk of rural women in Fujian, which may serve as an effective primary screening tool for the early identification of SUI risk and provide a basis for further implementation of individualized early intervention. Moreover, the model is concise and intuitive, which makes it more operational for rural women with scarce medical resources.

Association between exposure to multiple metals and stress urinary incontinence in women: a mixture approach

There is limited evidence linking exposure to heavy metals, especially mixed metals, to stress urinary incontinence (SUI). This study aimed to explore the relationship between multiple metals exposure and SUI in women. The data were derived from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES), 2007-2020. In the study, a total of 13 metals were analyzed in blood and urine. In addition, 5155 adult women were included, of whom 2123 (41.2%) suffered from SUI. The logistic regression model and restricted cubic spline (RCS) were conducted to assess the association of single metal exposure with SUI risk. The Bayesian kernel machine regression (BKMR) and weighted quantile sum (WQS) were used to estimate the combined effect of multiple metals exposure on SUI. First, we observed that blood Pb, Hg and urinary Pb, Cd were positively related to SUI risk, whereas urinary W was inversely related by multivariate logistic regression (all p-FDR < 0.05). Additionally, a significant non-linear relationship between blood Hg and SUI risk was observed by RCS analysis. In the co-exposure models, WQS model showed that exposure to metal mixtures in blood [OR (95%CI) = 1.18 (1.06, 1.31)] and urine [OR (95%CI) = 1.18 (1.03, 1.34)] was positively associated with SUI risk, which was consistent with the results of BKMR model. A potential interaction was identified between Hg and Cd in urine. Hg and Cd were the main contributors to the combined effects. In summary, our study indicates that exposure to heavy metal mixtures may increase SUI risk in women.

Effectiveness of web-based interventions for women with urinary incontinence: protocol for a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomised controlled trials

INTRODUCTION

Urinary incontinence (UI) is one of the most common chronic diseases among women, which can endanger their physical and mental health and incur a heavy financial burden on both individuals and society. Web-based interventions (WBIs) have been applied to manage women's UI, but their effectiveness has remained inconclusive. This systematic review and meta-analysis aims to explore the effectiveness of WBIs on self-reported symptom severity, condition-specific quality of life, adherence to pelvic floor muscle training (primary outcomes) and other extensive secondary outcomes among women with UI. We also aimed to investigate whether intervention characteristics (format, interactivity and main technology) have impacts on the effectiveness of primary outcomes.

METHODS AND ANALYSIS

This systematic review protocol was developed according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses Protocols guidelines. 10 electronic databases will be comprehensively searched from their inception to 1 May 2024, along with grey literature searches and manual reviews of relevant reference lists to identify eligible randomised controlled trials. The methodological quality of the included studies will be assessed by two reviewers based on the Cochrane Risk of Bias Tool. Meta-analyses will be conducted via Stata V.12.0. Leave-one-out sensitivity analyses will be performed, and publication bias will be evaluated using funnel plots and Egger's test. Subgroup analyses regarding intervention format, interactivity and main technology will be carried out.

ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION

No ethics approval is needed for this review since no primary data are to be collected. The results of this review will help develop an optimal WBI for women with UI, thereby providing them with maximum benefits. The findings will be disseminated via a peer-reviewed journal or conference presentation.

PROSPERO REGISTRATION NUMBER

CRD42023435047.

Total muscle-to-fat ratio influences urinary incontinence in United States adult women: a population-based study

Purpose

This study aims to investigate the relationship between the total muscle-to-fat ratio (tMFR) and female urinary incontinence (UI), determine whether tMFR can serve as a useful index for predicting UI, and identify factors that may influence this relationship.

Methods

We retrospectively analyzed data from 4391 adult women participating in the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) conducted between 2011 and 2018. The correlation between tMFR and UI was examined using a dose-response curve generated through a restricted cubic spline (RCS) function, LASSO and multivariate logistic regression. Furthermore, predictive models were constructed incorporating factors such as age, race, hypertension, diabetes, cotinine levels, and tMFR. The performance of these predictive models was evaluated using training and test datasets, employing calibration curves, receiver operating characteristic curves, and clinical decision curves. Mediation effects were also analyzed to explore potential relationships between tMFR and female UI.

Results

In a sample of 4391 adult women, 1073 (24.4%) self-reported experiencing UI, while 3318 (75.6%) reported not having UI. Based on the analyses involving LASSO regression and multivariate logistic regression, it was found that tMFR exhibited a negative association with UI (OR = 0.599, 95% CI: 0.497-0.719, P < 0.001). The results from the restricted cubic spline chart indicated a decreasing risk of UI in women as tMFR increased. Furthermore, the model constructed based on logistic regression analysis demonstrated a certain level of accuracy (in the training dataset: area under the curve (AUC) = 0.663; in the test dataset: AUC = 0.662) and clinical applicability. The mediation analysis revealed that the influence of tMFR on the occurrence of UI in women might potentially occur through the blood index lymphocyte count (P = 0.040).

Conclusion

A high tMFR serves as a protective factor against UI in women. Furthermore, lymphocyte might be involved in the relationship between tMFR and female UI.

Protocol for a prospective longitudinal cohort study on the effects of non-surgical weight loss on pelvic floor dysfunction

INTRODUCTION

Recent studies have recommended non-surgical weight loss and pelvic floor muscle training as first-line treatment for obese patients with urinary incontinence. However, limited studies are detecting the effect of weight loss on other types of pelvic floor dysfunctions (PFDs), as well as on the quality of life (QoL) and the related influencing factors.

METHODS AND ANALYSIS

The "Weight Loss on Pelvic Floor Dysfunction"(WLPFD) observational study is a 6 months prospective, longitudinal real-world cohort study aiming to recruit 200 patients. Participants will be followed up three times during the study: at baseline, and at 2 and 6 months. The methodology involves recruitment and follow-up of participants, data collection through validated questionnaires, and statistical analysis to assess the impact of non-surgical weight loss on PFD and QoL.

ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION

This study has been reviewed and given a favourable ethical opinion by the Peking Union Medical College Hospital ethics committee (K4278). All results from the study will be submitted to international journals and international conferences.

TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER

NCT05987085.

Diagnosed and undiagnosed cough-related stress urinary incontinence in women with refractory or unexplained chronic cough: Its impact on general health status and quality of life

Background: Stress urinary incontinence (SUI) is common in women with chronic cough but may be overlooked. Objective: To determine the frequency of underdiagnosis of cough-related SUI and its impact on women's general health status and quality of life (QoL). Methods: Data were analyzed for 147 women with refractory/unexplained chronic cough. Relevant details were collected from clinical charts and a patient-completed survey. General health status was assessed using the EuroQoL visual analogue scale (EQ-VAS) and QoL with the cough-specific Leicester Cough Questionnaire (LCQ). Results: Women were classified into diagnosed (n = 32; 21.8%) or undiagnosed (n = 33; 22.4%) cough-related SUI, and no SUI (n = 82; 55.6%) groups. Women with versus without cough-related SUI perceived poorer health status and greater impact of cough on everyday lives. Mean LCQ scores were significantly lower in cough-related SUI groups versus no SUI group. In multivariate analysis, the presence of cough-related SUI was significantly associated with lower EQ-VAS and LCQ scores. Conclusion: In our cohort, 44% of women had cough-related SUI, and half were undiagnosed. Irrespective of diagnosis, impairment to everyday lives and QoL was similar. Diagnosing cough-related SUI may identify additional patients who can benefit from therapies to suppress cough and improve QoL.

Risk and protective factors for pregnancy-related urinary incontinence until 1 year postpartum: A cohort study using patient-reported outcome measures in Italy

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the epidemiology of pregnancy-related urinary incontinence (UI) and the related risk factors, focusing also on women's characteristics related to maternity pathway utilization.

METHODS

In this prospective cohort study, we used patient-reported data obtained from the systematic survey on the maternity pathway that all pregnant women in Tuscany, Italy, can join. We selected 8410 women who completed-between March 2019 and November 2022-all five follow-up questionnaires from the first trimester until 12 months postpartum, each including a UI-specific patient-reported outcome measure. We performed panel regression models to explore the related risk factors.

RESULTS

Prevalence of UI was 4.4% at the first trimester, 23.7% at the third trimester, and 15.6%, 12.6%, and 12.4% at 3, 6, and 12 months postpartum. UI occurrence and severity were higher in older, overweight/obese, and unemployed women. High-risk pregnancy and discomfort during pregnancy were risk factors. Receiving a cesarean section reduced the risk, while spontaneous tears, episiotomy, and high birth weight increased it. Women who experienced delays in pregnancy examinations because of long waiting times and women who had planned pregnancy had a higher risk, while performing during-pregnancy pelvic-floor-muscle training was protective.

CONCLUSION

Besides confirming the classic risk and protective factors for UI, we also found novel determinants related to the proper maternity pathway utilization.

The effect of duloxetine on female sexual functions in the treatment of stress incontinence

OBJECTIVES

Stress urinary incontinence (SUI) is defined as urinary incontinence that occurs with coughing, sneezing, and physical exercise. It is frequently observed in women after middle age and has a negative impact on their sexual function. Duloxetine as one of the Serotonin-noradrenaline reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs) is commonly used in the non-surgical treatment of SUI. The aim of our study is to investigate the effect of duloxetine, which is used in the treatment of SUI, on sexual functions in female patients.

METHODS

The study included 40 sexually active patients who received duloxetine 40 mg twice a day for the treatment of SUI. All patients had female sexual function index (FSFI), Beck's depression inventory (BDI), and incontinence quality of life score (I-QOL) applied before and 2 months after starting duloxetine treatment.

RESULTS

FSFI total score significantly increased from 19.9 to 25.7 (p < 0.001). In addition, significant improvement was observed in all sub-parameters of FSFI, including arousal, lubrication, orgasm, satisfaction, and pain/discomfort (p < 0.001, for each FSFI subtotal score). BDI significantly decreased from 4.5 to 1.5 (p < 0.001). I-QOL score significantly increased from 57.6 to 92.7 after the duloxetine treatment.

CONCLUSIONS

Although SNRIs carry a high risk of sexual dysfunction, duloxetine may have an indirect positive effect on female sexual activity, both through its stress incontinence treatment and its antidepressant effect. In our study, Duloxetine, one of the treatment options for stress urinary incontinence and an SNRI, has a positive effect on stress urinary incontinence, mental health, and sexual activity in patients with SUI.

Association between oxidative balance score and urinary incontinence in females: results from the national health and nutrition examination survey in 2005-2018

PURPOSE

Oxidative stress plays a crucial role in the pathogenesis of urinary incontinence (UI). This study aimed to assess the association between the oxidative balance score (OBS) and UI in adult females in the United States.

METHODS

The study utilized data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey database, spanning from 2005 to 2018. Weighted multivariate logistic regression, subgroup analyses, and restricted cubic spline regression were conducted to determine the odds ratio (OR) and 95% confidence intervals (95% CI) regarding the association between OBS and UI. Sensitivity analyses were performed to assess the robustness of the findings.

RESULTS

A total of 7304 participants were enrolled in this study. After adjusting for potential confounders, participants with lower OBS were found to have a higher likelihood of experiencing stress, urge, and mixed incontinence (OR, 0.986; 95% CI 0.975-0.998; p = 0.022; OR, 0.978; 95% CI 0.963-0.993; p = 0.004; and OR, 0.975; 95% CI 0.961-0.990; p = 0.001). Lifestyle factors were strongly associated with the prevalence and frequency of UI. The results remained consistent, and no significant interaction effects were observed in the subgroup analyses. The prevalence of three types of UI exhibited a nonlinear inverted U-shaped trend with increasing in OBS and dietary OBS (p for nonlinear < 0.05).

CONCLUSION

Among females, the higher the OBS, the lower the prevalence of UI. Therefore, dietary and lifestyle-related antioxidant therapy for females with UI should receive attention and be subject to further investigation.

Optimized electroacupuncture treatment for female stress urinary incontinence: study protocol for a multi-center randomized controlled trial

Background

Stress urinary incontinence (SUI) is a common condition that can severely affect women's life quality. Electroacupuncture (EA) has been proved to be an optional treatment for SUI, but the tolerance of EA becomes a factor affecting efficiency, which should not be ignored and needs to be solved urgently. The purpose of this study is to find out whether the use of alternating acupoints combination can solve this problem or not and provide an optimization of EA treatment for female SUI.

Methods

This multi-center randomized controlled trial will enroll 360 patients with SUI. They will be randomly assigned to one of the three groups-sacral acupoints group (sacral group), abdominal acupoints group (abdominal group), or alternating acupoints group (alternating group)-at a 1:1:1 ratio. The patients will receive 18 sessions of EA treatment and will be followed up for 48 weeks after the treatment. The primary outcome measure of the study is the change of urine leakage at week 6. The secondary outcomes include the incontinence episode frequency (IEF), International Consultation on Incontinence Questionnaire-Short Form (ICIQ-SF), severity of SUI, patient self-evaluation of therapeutic effects, weekly usage of urine pads, ultrasonography of pelvic floor, specialty therapies for SUI, evaluation of discomfort during EA treatment, patient acceptability evaluation and adverse events related to intervention.

Discussion

This trial is specifically designed to offer an optimized EA treatment for female SUI, aiming to enhance their quality of life.Clinical trial registration: ClinicalTrials.gov, identifier ID:NCT05635669.

Effectiveness of Pelvic Floor Muscle Training on Quality of Life in Women with Urinary Incontinence: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Background and Objectives: Urinary incontinence (UI) is a condition that is more common in women than men and has an increasing prevalence with age. It provides a range of psychological and physical burdens that negatively affect the patient's quality of life (QoL). However, the economic burden for the healthcare system is being augmented due to the increasing life expectancy of the population. This article aims to identify the effectiveness of pelvic floor muscle training (PFMT) on the QoL in women with UI. Materials and Methods: A systematic review and meta-analysis were conducted in the PubMed, EMBASE, ProQuest medicine, Cochrane Library, and Google Scholar databases. The terms selected according to components of PICOS were women with urinary incontinence, pelvic floor muscle training, watchful or other types of therapies, quality of life, randomized controlled trials, and interventional or observational studies. The articles included were those published between November 2018 and November 2022. Ten articles were found for the systematic review and eight for the meta-analysis. Results: The QoL moderately increased when PFMT was used on women with UI, the results indicating an overall small effect on the QoL across the controlled studies and a moderate effect on the QoL across the one-group pre-post-studies. Conclusions: Specific QoL domains, such as social activities and general health, also demonstrated benefits from PFMT interventions. This study confirmed the effectiveness of PFMT on the QoL in women with UI, mainly for patients with stress urinary incontinence.

Association between calf circumference and incontinence in Chinese elderly

BACKGROUND

The objective of this study was to analyze the association between calf circumference and incontinence in Chinese elderly, and to find out the maximal cut-off point by gender for the use of calf circumference in screening for incontinence.

METHODS

In this study, participants were from the 2018 Chinese Longitudinal Healthy Longevity Survey (CLHLS). The maximal calf circumference cut-off point and other incontinence-related risk factors were explored using receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves and logistic regression analysis.

RESULTS

The study included 14,989 elderly people (6,516 males and 8,473 females) over 60. The prevalence of incontinence in elderly males was 5.23% (341/6,516), significantly lower than females, which was 8.31% (704/8,473) (p < 0.001). There was no correlation between calf circumference < 34 cm in males and < 33 cm in females and incontinence after adjusting the confounders. We further stratified by gender to predict incontinence in elderly based on the Youden index of ROC curves. We found the association between calf circumference and incontinence was the strongest when the cut-off points were < 28.5 cm for males and < 26.5 cm for females, with an odds rate (OR) value of 1.620 (male, 95%CI: 1.197-2.288) and 1.292 (female, 95%CI: 1.044-1.600) after adjusting the covariates, respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

Our study suggests that calf circumference < 28.5 cm in males and < 26.5 cm in females is a risk factor for incontinence in the Chinese elderly population. Calf circumference should be measured in routine physical examination, and timely interventions should be made to reduce the risk of incontinence in subjects with calf circumference less than the threshold.

Toileting behaviors, urinary cues, overactive bladder, and urinary incontinence in older women

INTRODUCTION AND HYPOTHESIS

Overactive bladder (OAB) and urinary incontinence (UI) are prevalent in older women. We investigated relations of toileting behaviors and urinary urge cues to OAB and UI in women ≥ 65 years. We tested mediation hypotheses that toileting behaviors lead to higher sensitivity to urinary urge cues (the mediator), which leads to both OAB and UI.

METHODS

An e-panel was recruited to respond to an electronic survey that included demographic information, Urinary Cues Scale version 2, Toileting Behaviors-Women's Elimination Behaviors (TB-WEB) scale, and the International Consultation on Incontinence Questionnaire Short Forms for Urinary Incontinence (ICIQ-SF-UI) and Overactive Bladder (ICIQ-SF-OAB). Descriptive statistics were conducted; correlation matrices were created to explore relationships among major variables. Regression analyses were conducted to test our mediation hypotheses.

RESULTS

There were 338 respondents with average age 70.9 (SD + 5.55) years. Most were white, overweight or obese, and had UI. Urinary urge cues fully mediated the relationship of TB-WEB with OAB. Urinary urge cues partially mediated the relationship of TB-WEB with UI; the direct effect of toileting behaviors on UI remained significant. Age and body mass index had significant partial correlations with UI but not with OAB.

DISCUSSION

Toileting behaviors appear to contribute to sensitivity to urinary cues, which are related to both OAB and UI. Toileting behaviors have indirect effects on OAB and both indirect and direct effects on UI. Interventions to change toileting behaviors and extinguish urinary cues are needed.

CONCLUSIONS

Behavioral and conditioning factors contribute to UI in older women.

Rumba Dance Combined with Breathing Training as an Exercise Intervention in the Management of Stress Urinary Incontinence in Postmenopausal Women: A Randomized Controlled Trial

Purpose: Stress urinary incontinence (SUI) refers to involuntary leakage from the urethra, synchronous with exertion/effort, sneezing or coughing, which has a negative effect on quality of life. Studies have shown that mild-to-moderate physical activities reduce the risk of SUI by multiple mechanisms. The objective of this study was to determine whether the Rumba dance combined with breathing training (RDBT) can reduce the severity of incontinence and improve the quality of life of patients with SUI. Methods: A randomized clinical trial was conducted with women who were sedentary, were postmenopausal, reported mild-to-moderate SUI on a 1-h pad test, were not already engaged in Rumba dance and did not receive estrogen replacement therapy. The patients were randomly assigned to the RDBT group (n = 13) or the control group (n = 11). The intervention included 90 min of RDBT three times per week for 16 weeks, and the vaginal resting pressure (VRP), pelvic floor muscle (PFM) strength and endurance, 1-h pad test, International Consultation on Incontinence Questionnaire—Urinary Incontinence Short Form (ICIQ—UI SF), and the Incontinence Quality of Life Questionnaire (I—QOL) were measured or completed at baseline and 16 weeks. None of the participants reported adverse events. Results: The mean (±SD) age of the participants was 55.75 ± 5.58 years. After 16 weeks, in the RDBT group, the urine leakage on the 1-h pad test was significantly decreased −2.91 ± 0.49 from the baseline (p = 0.000). The VRP increased from 76.00 ± 16.23 cmH2O to 95.09 ± 18.90 cmH2O (p = 0.000), the PFM endurance of class I (−3.15 ± 1.99% vs. −0.46 ± 0.97%, p = 0.000) and class II (−0.69 ± 0.95% vs. −0.23 ± 0.44%, p = 0.065) increased, and the grades of PFM strength of class I and class II were significantly enhanced (p < 0.01). Finally, the severity of self-reported incontinence (ICIQ—UI SF) significantly decreased from 6.12 ± 2.15 to 3.81 ± 1.68 (p = 0.000), and quality of life (I—QOL) improved from 75.73 ± 11.93 to 83.48 ± 7.88 (p = 0.005). Conclusion: A 16-week RDBT program can increase PFM strength and endurance to reduce the severity of incontinence symptoms and improve the quality of life in patients with SUI, demonstrating the feasibility of recruiting and retaining postmenopausal women with SUI into a RDBT therapeutic program.

Association between body mass index, trunk and total body fat percentage with urinary incontinence in adult US population

INTRODUCTION AND HYPOTHESIS

To assess the association of body mass index (BMI), trunk and total body fat percentage with the prevalence and severity of urinary incontinence (UI) stratified by gender among a US adult population.

METHODS

A representative cross-sectional survey of participants aged ≥ 20 years was conducted using the data from the 2011-2018 National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey. Multivariate logistic and linear regression models were used to explore the association among the three obesity measures above with the prevalence and severity of UI.

RESULTS

A total of 6964 individuals (4168 males and 2796 females) enrolled for the final analysis. Among males, the weighted prevalence of UI was 7.8%, with 1.3% stress urinary incontinence, 5.8% urge urinary incontinence and 0.7% mixed urinary incontinence. For females, the weighted prevalence of UI was 54.2%, with 31.9% stress urinary incontinence, 7.0% urge urinary incontinence and 15.6% mixed urinary incontinence. Multivariate logistic regression revealed increased BMI and trunk fat percentage significantly increased odds of UI (BMI: OR = 1.05 [per 1 kg/m²], 95% CI: 1.03-1.07, P < 0.001; trunk fat percentage: OR = 1.15 [per 5% increase in trunk fat percentage], 95% CI: 1.06-1.25, P = 0.002) in females. Similar trends were observed in the severity of UI (BMI: β = 0.07, 95% CI: 0.05-0.09, P < 0.001; trunk fat percentage: β = 0.18, 95% CI: 0.10-0.26, P < 0.001) by a multivariate linear regression. In males, no significant association was observed (BMI: OR = 0.99 [per 1 kg/m²], 95% CI: 0.97-1.02, P = 0.663; trunk fat percentage: OR = 0.95 [per 5% increase in trunk fat percentage], 95% CI: 0.84-1.08, P = 0.430; total fat percentage: OR = 0.94 [per 5% increase in total fat percentage], 95% CI: 0.80-1.10, P = 0.424).

CONCLUSIONS

An increased BMI and trunk fat percentage are significantly associated with higher prevalence and severity of UI in females.

Associations Between Bacterial Vaginosis And Urgency Urinary Incontinence In Women: An Analysis Of Nhanes 2001 To 2004

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the relationship between bacterial vaginosis (BV) and urinary incontinence (UI) in American women.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) from 2001 to 2004 were merged. Self-collected vaginal swabs were used to assess BV. Urinary incontinence was determined by self-report. Multivariable logistic regression models were used to assess the association between BV and UI in American women, controlling for potential confounders.

RESULTS

Overall, 31.3% of female respondents tested positive for bacterial vaginosis. Women with bacterial vaginosis were more likely to report stress urinary incontinence (SUI) (22.78% vs 17.79%), urgency urinary incontinence (UUI) (12.86% vs 7.26%) and mixed urinary incontinence (MUI) (7.35% vs 4.42%) than women without bacterial vaginosis. In the adjusted analysis, women with bacterial vaginosis had 1.47 times greater odds of urgency urinary incontinence (OR 1.47, 95% CI 1.07 to 2.17, p=0.0160), and bacterial vaginosis did not increase the odds of stress urinary incontinence and mixed urinary incontinence in women.

CONCLUSION

After controlling for known risk factors, bacterial vaginosis seems to be significantly related to female urgency urinary incontinence. However, the cross-sectional nature of this study does not allow the conclusion of causality. Further basic and cohort studies are needed to examine the association of BV with UUI.

Relaxin-2 during pregnancy according to glycemia, continence status, and pelvic floor muscle function

INTRODUCTION AND HYPOTHESIS

To investigate relaxin-2 concentration comparing gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) and non-GDM patients during pregnancy according to urinary incontinence (UI) and pelvic function status.

METHODS

This is a cross-sectional study evaluating 282 pregnant women from 24 weeks of gestation. The participants were divided into two groups, non-GDM and GDM, according to American Diabetes Association's diabetes mellitus gestational threshold. In addition, according to subanalysis, both groups were subdivided according to the presence of pregnancy-specific urinary incontinence: non-GDM continent, non-GDM incontinent, GDM continent, and GDM incontinent. All participants filled in questionnaires on clinical, obstetric, and urinary continence status (International Consultation on Incontinence Questionnaire-Short Form, ICIQ-SF, and Incontinence Severity Index, ISI), followed by pelvic floor muscle evaluation by the PERFECT scheme in which strength, endurance, and speed of contractions were evaluated.

RESULTS

Serum relaxin-2 concentrations were significantly lower in pregnant women with pregnancy-specific urinary incontinence in both non-GDM and GDM patients, but GDM showed the lowest concentration. In addition, the stratification of the groups according to pelvic floor muscle strength showed that pregnant patients with GDM and modified Oxford scale 0-2 had significantly lower levels than those who were non-GDM and GDM with Modified Oxford Scale 3-5. Relaxin-2 level was much lower in GDM incontinent pregnant women with MOS 0-2 compared to the other three groups.

CONCLUSIONS

Lower relaxin-2 concentration was associated with the presence of pregnancy-specific urinary incontinence, but the combination of GDM, pregnancy-specific urinary incontinence, and lower levels of pelvic floor strength led to lower levels of relaxin-2 compared to the other three groups.

Clinical Study on the Treatment of Female Stress Urinary Incontinence With Modified Buzhong Yiqi Decoction

Purpose

To study the clinical application value of Modified Buzhong Yiqi Decoction in the treatment of female stress urinary incontinence (SUI).

Methods

A total of 103 female patients with SUI were included in this study, 13 were lost to follow-up, and the final number of studies was 90. General information about the patients, including age, years of menopause, body mass index (BMI), reproductive history, chronic respiratory disease, hypertension, and diabetes, were recorded. All the patients were treated with Modified Buzhong Yiqi Decoction alone for 4 weeks. The Patient Global Impression of Improvement (PGI-I), the International Consultation on Incontinence Questionnaire-Urinary Incontinence Short Form (ICI-QSF) and 72-h voiding diary were used to evaluate the patients' subjective symptoms and urinary incontinence degree before treatment, 1 month after treatment and 1 year after treatment, the efficacy and efficacy-related factors of Modified Buzhong Yiqi Decoction in the treatment of female SUI were analyzed.

Results

One month after Modified Buzhong Yiqi Decoction treatment, compared with before treatment, the PGI-I questionnaire was very much better (68.89%), much better (8.89%), a little better (12.33%), no change (8.89%), the ICI-QSF score decreased (P < 0.05), and 72-h urine leakage frequency decreased (P < 0.05); One year after treatment compared with before treatment, the PGI-I questionnaire was very much better (40.00%), much better (17.78%), a little better (12.22%), no change (30.00%), the ICI-QSF score decreased (P < 0.05), and 72-h urine leakage frequency decreased (P < 0.05); and 1 year after treatment compared with 1 month after treatment, the ratio of very much better at 1 year after treatment was significantly decreased (P < 0.05), the score of the ICI-QSF was significantly increased (P < 0.05), and 72-h urine leakage frequency was significantly increased (P < 0.05). The correlation analysis showed that the efficacy at 1 month after treatment was negatively correlated with the severity of SUI and chronic respiratory diseases, but was not significantly correlated with age, menopause status, BMI, number of pregnancies, and number of births. The efficacy at 1 year after treatment was negatively correlated with the severity of SUI, chronic respiratory disease, age, and number of births and was positively correlated with BMI, but not significantly correlated with menopause status and number of pregnancies.

Conclusion

Modified Buzhong Yiqi Decoction can effectively treat SUI in women. The efficacy is related to the severity of SUI and chronic abdominal hypertension, but the long-term efficacy decreases.

Does electroacupuncture benefit mixed urinary incontinence? A systematic review and meta-analysis with trial sequential analysis

Introductin and hypothesis

Mixed urinary incontinence (MUI) comprises a combination of urgency and stress. The efficacy and safety of electroacupuncture (EA) for the treatment of MUI remain unclear.

Objective

To assess the efficacy and safety of EA in treating MUI.

Methods

We searched PubMed, CENTRAL, Embase, Web of Science, four Chinese databases, clinical research registration platforms, grey literature, and the reference lists of the selected studies. Risk of bias and quality were evaluated using the Revman 5.4 and Jadad scores. Meta-analysis was performed using Stata 15.1 software. Trial sequential analysis (TSA) was used to assess the stability of the results.

Results

Eight randomized controlled trials comprising 847 patients were included. The meta-analysis results showed that compared with antimuscarinic drugs plus pelvic floor muscle training, EA resulted in significantly less pad weight on the 1-h pad test and statistically significantly lower severity scores on the International Consultation on Incontinence Questionnaire Short Form. The change in the 72-h incontinence episode frequency difference was not statistically significant, and there was no outcome of overall response rate and quality of life in this meta-analysis. Few adverse events occurred in the EA group. The TSA results suggested that the result of change from baseline in the 1-h pad test was stable and the evidence was conclusive.

Conclusions

EA could be a potential treatment option for MUI and is relatively safe. Nevertheless, because of the limitations of this study, our conclusions should be interpreted with caution, and further studies are needed to confirm the comprehensive clinical efficacy and placebo effect of EA.