A populational—based survey on the prevalence, incidence, and risk factors of urinary incontinence in older adults—results from the “SABE STUDY”

Aims To estimate the prevalence and incidence of urinary incontinence (UI) and identify the associated risk factors in a cohort of elderly individuals in Brazil. Methods In 2006, individuals aged ≥60 years were selected from the SABE Study (Health, Well‐being, and Aging). The dependent variable was reported UI in 2009. UI was assessed using the International Consultation on Incontinence Questionnaire Urinary Incontinence‐Short Form (ICIQ‐UI SF). Incidence was measured in units of 1000 person‐years, and Cox regression was applied for data analysis. Multivariate analysis was used to assess risk factors for UI. Incidence risk ratio (IRR) was used for comparison. Results This is the first study to examine the incidence of UI in Brazilian elderly individuals. In total, 1413 individuals were included; the mean age was 74.5 years, and 864 (61.8%) participants were female. The risk of UI was greater among women with cancer (other than skin) and among those with diabetes. In men, the risk of UI was greater for those in Instrumental Activities of Daily Living (IADL) category “5‐8” and those who self‐reported a “fair” health status. The prevalence of UI was 14.2% and 28.2% for men and women, respectively. The incidence rate of UI was 25.6 and 39.3 (×1000 person‐years) for men and women, respectively. Conclusions The incidence rate of UI among older adults in the Brazilian community was high for elderly individuals. The identified risk factors were diabetes and IADL category 5‐8 (women) as well as cancer (other than skin) and self‐reported health status (male).