Urinary Incontinence: Prevalence and Knowledge Among Community-Dwelling Korean Women Aged 55 and Over

  • Kim, Jin-Sun (Chosun University, Department of Nursing) ;
  • Lee, Eun-Hyun (Ajou University, Department of Preventive Medicine and Public Health) ;
  • Park, Hyung-Cheol (Dong-gu Health Center,Department of Nursing Chosun University)
  • Published : 2004.06.01

Abstract

Purpose. The prevalence of urinary incontinence (UI) among community-dwelling older women in Korea is not well known. This study examined the prevalence of UI and UI-related knowledge among community-dwelling Korean women aged 55 and over. Method. A cross-sectional descriptive-correlational study was conducted. Data were collected from 276 women aged 55 and over in a metropolitan city using a structured questionnaire. Result. Of 276 respondents, 28.3% (n=78) reported experiencing UI. More than 50% of respondents incorrectly agreed with the statement that UI is the result of normal aging, with only 20.9% realizing that there is an exercise that can control urine leaks when one coughs, sneezes, or laughs. Older women who had sought treatment had higher mean score for UI-related knowledge. Conclusion. This study revealed substantial misconception about UI among community dwelling older women, demonstrating that comprehensive educational programs need to be developed to increase knowledge of UI.

Keywords

References

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