Overactive bladder significantly affects quality of life

Abstract

Overactive bladder (OAB), with symptoms of frequency, urgency, and urge incontinence, substantially affects the lives of millions of people. The symptoms associated with OAB can significantly affect the social, psychological, occupational, domestic, physical, and sexual aspects of those who suffer from it. Unfortunately, many sufferers are reluctant to discuss their condition with their healthcare provider or family members. As a result, OAB remains underreported, despite increased awareness and improved diagnosis and treatment. Health-related quality of life can be measured objectively, and several instruments have been developed, validated, and used in research. Currently, there are 2 major types of quality-of-life questionnaires: generic and disease specific. Although these questionnaires have been helpful and are widely used, the goal is to establish a single questionnaire that is acceptable throughout the world for use by urologists, gynecologists, urogynecologists, geriatricians, and epidemiologists.