Prevalence of nocturnal enuresis, risk factors, associated familial factors and urinary pathology among school children in Iran

Abstract

Aim: To estimate the prevalence of enuresis in school-age children in Iran and determine associated factors.

Materials and methods: A total of 7562 children, aged 5-18 years, enrolled in this cross-sectional study. Using a standard questionnaire, data on demographic characteristics, and familial and physical conditions were obtained from the parents by interview. The ICD-10 definition of enuresis was used. In the case of enuretics, a detailed history was taken, and physical and ultrasonographic examinations, urinalysis and urine culture were performed.

Results: The overall prevalence of enuresis was 6.8%. A significant relationship was found between the prevalence of enuresis and age (P=0.001), educational level of parents (P=0.001), number of family members (P=0.028), positive family history of enuresis (P=0.001), parenting methods (P=0.001), and deep sleep (P=0.001). Birth weight (P=0.07), monthly income (P=0.322), employment status of parents (P=0.08), ethnic differences (P=0.09), delayed development (P=0.062), drinking (P=0.072) or urination habit before sleep (P=0.06), and stool incontinence (P=0.062) were not significantly associated with enuresis. Prevalence of urinary tract pathology was 2.9% in enuretics.

Conclusions: This study provides a quantitative estimate of the prevalence and main risk factors for enuresis in Iranian children.