Article,
The impact of bladder problems on well-being in multiple sclerosis - A cross-sectional study
Affiliations
- [1] Coloplast AS, Holtedam 1-3, DK-3050 Humlebaek, Denmark [NORA names: Coloplast; Private Research; Denmark; Europe, EU; Nordic; OECD];
- [2] Univ Coll London Hosp NHS Fdn Trust, Natl Hosp Neurol & Neurosurg, Dept Uroneurol, London, England [NORA names: United Kingdom; Europe, Non-EU; OECD];
- [3] UCL, UCL Queen Sq Inst Neurol, Fac Brain Sci, London, England [NORA names: United Kingdom; Europe, Non-EU; OECD];
- [4] Univ Coll London Hosp NHS Fdn Trust, Natl Hosp Neurol & Neurosurg, Dept Uroneurol, London, England [NORA names: United Kingdom; Europe, Non-EU; OECD];
- [5] UCL, UCL Queen Sq Inst Neurol, Fac Brain Sci, London, England [NORA names: United Kingdom; Europe, Non-EU; OECD];
(... more)
Abstract
Background: Persons with multiple sclerosis (pwMS) frequently suffer from bladder problems that are not identified and managed optimally, reducing quality of life and increasing risk of health consequences. Objective: This study aimed to investigate associations between bladder problems and well-being of pwMS. Methods: The study included 1872 pwMS from France, Germany, Italy, and the UK self-reporting on demographics, MS status, bladder problems and management, and well-being. Logistic regression analyses were performed to investigate associations with self-reported well-being. Results: Population mean age was 51 years and 79 % were women. Among pwMS, 55 % reported bladder problems indicating overactive bladder (OAB), and 40 % reported self-experienced urinary retention. Selfmanagement of bladder problems was reported by 32 %, 33 % were yet to have problem resolution, and 45 % reported a wish to receive bladder management help. Additionally, 35 % of pwMS reported that bladder problem onset preceded awareness of a link to MS. OAB, problem self-management, and urinary complications were significantly associated with lower well-being. Conclusion: Bladder problems affect pwMS across disease subtypes and many attempt self-management. Consequently, pwMS with bladder problems are more likely to experience lower well-being, suggesting an unmet need. Raising awareness of the link between bladder problems and well-being could benefit pwMS living with bladder problems.