Investigating the relationship between physical activity and urinary incontinence : an epidemiological study

Abstract

Objective: To identify whether a correlation exists between physical activity and urinary incontinence. More specifically, to establish whether the incidence, severity and type of urinary incontinence can be influenced by different levels of physical activity, and if physical activity could reduce the risk of urinary incontinence in healthy, young and middle-aged adults. Method: An epidemiological study with a quantitative, correlational and explanatory design, and a survey method that was carried out to determine the extent to which the two variables co-vary. Subject recruitment was on a voluntary basis and restricted to anyone aged between 18 and 69 years, with internet access. The International Physical Activity Questionnaire – Short Last 7 Days and the International Consultation on Incontinence Questionnaire- Urinary Incontinence – Short Form, preceded by a set of introductory questions were used to gather data on physical activity and urinary incontinence respectively. The data collection period ran on for a total of four weeks and the online survey was available for completion throughout the entire duration. IBM SPSS was used to statistically analyse the themes under study and apply a number of statistical tests. Results: Data analysis revealed that the moderately active respondents were least severely affected by urinary incontinence (2.22±0.45), compared to those minimally active respondents (3.09±0.59) who were the most severely affected (p-value 0.031). Conclusion: Moderate activity could reduce the risk of urinary incontinence in healthy, young and middle-aged adults. Furthermore, it can be used as a preliminary measure to restore the continence mechanism before trying more invasive physiotherapeutic treatments. Physiotherapy input can ensure that any incontinent person attains at least a moderate level of activity or any further necessary interventions.