Assessment of Voiding Dysfunction and Nocturnal Enuresis Rates in Primary School Children in Nablus, Palestine: A Cross-Sectional Study

Abstract

Background: Voiding dysfunction (VD) is a frequent reason for primary care referrals to urologists and pediatric urologists. VD symptoms include urine incontinence (UI), urinary tract infection (UTI), hyperactive bladder, and constipation. Early detection of Nocturnal enuresis is critical due to its high frequency and the consequences for families and children regarding psychological and behavioral aspects.

Objectives: This study aims to determine the prevalence of voiding disorder in Palestine and its relationship to demographic, family, and behavioral risk factors.

Design: A cross-sectional study.

Methods: This study administered a 2-part validated questionnaire to the mothers of primary school-age children who had no history of urological disease between December 2022 and March 2023.

Results: Out of 169 children; daytime incontinence was found in 39 (23.2%) of the sample, whereas nocturnal enuresis was found in 49 (28.4%). Age was significantly correlated with voiding dysfunction, in which 25 (55.6%) were under the age of 7 years (P = .025).

Conclusion: According to our data, VD is a widespread health issue in primary school. Expanding our understanding of voiding dysfunction is important to eliminate the social stigma associated with voiding disorder and encourage parents and children to seek treatments and therapies. Furthermore, raising awareness will aid in early diagnosis, resulting in fewer long-term problems and earlier treatments. Raising awareness can be accomplished through educational programs focusing on primary care screening.

Keywords: Palestine; children; enuresis; primary care; voiding dysfunction.