Urinary Incontinence in Adolescent Females with Cystic Fibrosis

SummaryUrinary incontinence has been found to be common in girls and women with cystic fibrosis (CF)1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11 and 12. This often can have a marked impact on daily activities and quality of life1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11 and 12. It may also lead to potential deterioration of respiratory status due to reduced adherence to forced expiratory manoeuvres (cough, lung function tests and exercise) by the girls trying to avoid occurrence of urinary incontinence (UI)11. Analysis of the literature is limited by the fact that different definitions and a variety of questionnaires have been used. There is little literature regarding UI in men and boys which is thought to be less common than in females.11National guideline recommendations in the management of CF in Australia and the United Kingdom have in recent years changed to incorporate screening and management of UI.No studies to date have looked at outcomes of interventions in children and adolescents with CF or other respiratory conditions; however those working with this population need to be aware of the problem of UI as it is a treatable condition and could potentially be prevented.