What causes incontinence?

Incontinence is the loss of voluntary control over bladder or bowel function and is one of the biggest health issues in the Australian community. Incontinence affects nearly four million Australians of all ages and for a variety of reasons. Incontinence can be managed and treated. In many cases it may also be cured.

Who is affected?

• Between 4 and 6% of the population suffer from incontinence. (est. 10-15% of people aged 65 and over)
• Incontinence can affect people of all ages as a result of: prostate problems, menopause, neurological diseases (Parkinson’s, MS etc), Cancer, Spinal Injuries, Dementia, Stroke, Childbirth, Chronic Cough etc.
• One in three women who have ever had a baby have incontinence.
• Men experience incontinence frequently associated with prostate issues. Commonly from middle-age onward there can be a range of urinary symptoms around staining, frequency and reduced bladder control.
• Nearly half of all women aged 26 – 39 have a leakage episode at least once during this age period.
• An estimated 70% of nursing home residents have an incontinence condition, but present indications are that the figure is higher and growing.

Why is incontinence a national health priority?

• Total estimated Government Funding for incontinence in the community is in excess of $100 million per annum.
• Australians spend nearly $1 billion per annum on incontinence aids
• The Australian Government has provided $31 million to the National Continence Management Strategy to help tackle this significant issue.
• Incontinence is one of the three primary reasons for admission to a residential aged care facility.
• The Australian Government have allocated $1.7 million for a research project which will test if a continence health check and care plan can delay entry into an aged care home for a person with incontinence.

Sourced from the Continence Foundation of Australia’s website www.continence.org.au – Last updated September 2008.