A community-based epidemiological survey of female urinary incontinence. The Norwegian EPINCONT study.

Objectives
The aim of the study was to assess the prevalence of any urinary leakage in an unselected female population in Norway, and to estimate the prevalence of significant incontinence.

Methods
The EPINCONT Study is part of a large survey (HUNT 2) performed in the Nord-Trøndelag county in Norway during 1995-97. The survey covered many topics, using questionnaires and clinical and laboratory tests. 27936 (80%) out of 34755 participating community-dwelling women aged 20 years or more answered our questions about frequency and severity of urine loss, type of incontinence, the duration and impact of symptoms, and whether a doctor had been consulted. A validated severity index was used to assess severity.

Results
25% of the participating women had urinary leakage. Nearly 7% had significant incontinence, defined as moderate or severe incontinence that was experienced as bothersome. The prevalence of both any and significant incontinence increased with increasing age. Half of the incontinence was of stress type. The fraction of severe UI was 17% (stress UI), 28% (urge) and 38% (mixed). 47% of the women with mixed incontinence were bothered by their condition (urge group 36%, stress 24%).

Conclusions
Urinary leakage is highly prevalent among adult women. 7% have significant incontinence and this group should be regarded as potential patients.

Home page EPINCONT
Home page Department
Home page University

Department of Public Health and Primary Health Care, last updated 14.09.00