Urinary incontinence and its impact on the quality of life of adults 50 years or older: A study from a tertiary care teaching hospital in Al-Khobar, Eastern Province, Saudi Arabia

Abstract

BACKGROUND:
Urinary incontinence (UI) is a prevalent yet underreported condition that adversely affects the quality of life of older adults. This study aimed to assess the frequency and risk factors of UI and its impact on the quality of life of adults aged 50 years and older attending outpatient clinics of a tertiary care teaching hospital in the Eastern Province, Saudi Arabia.


MATERIALS AND METHODS:
This cross-sectional study was conducted from December 15, 2024, to March 10, 2025. Four hundred persons aged 50 years or older attending outpatient clinics, selected by convenient sampling, filled a structured validated questionnaire in Arabic. International Consultation on Incontinence Questionnaire-Urinary Incontinence Short Form assessed UI, and the Incontinence Impact Questionnaire Short Form (IIQ-7 SF) determined the impact of UI on the quality of life. Data were analyzed using SPSS and included descriptive statistics, Chi-square test, and logistic regression analysis.


RESULTS:

The majority of participants were Saudis (86.3%), aged 50–64 (75.6%), and females (59.3%); 32.5% participants reported UI. Of the females, a family history of UI (odds ratio [OR] = 2.48 [1.27–4.85],
P
= 0.008) and uterine prolapse (OR = 6.80 [2.57–18.18),
P
< 0.001) were the most significant risk factors for UI. Benign prostatic hyperplasia was a significant risk factor for UI (OR = 4.50 [1.88–10.82],
P
= 0.001) in males. Mean score for interference of urinary leakage with daily life, on a scale of 0–10, was 5.03 ± 3.69. UI showed a mild to moderate impact on participants’ quality of life. However, 20.8% reported a “great” impact on traveling by car or bus for more than 30 minutes from home.



CONCLUSION:
UI is common in adults 50 years or older (32.5%) and has a substantial impact on their quality of life, affecting physical, emotional, and social well-being. Despite its effects, underreporting remains common because of the stigma and the lack of awareness.