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Longitudinal changes in peak urinary flow rates in a community based cohort
R O Roberts1, S J Jacobsen, D J Jacobson
1Department of Health Sciences Research, Sections of Clinical Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Mayo Clinic and Mayo Foundation, Rochester, Minnesota 55905, USA.
The Journal of Urology
|December 22, 1999
Summary
Peak urinary flow rate naturally declines with age in men. Older men and those with lower baseline flow rates experience a more rapid decline, indicating potential lower urinary tract issues.
Area of Science:
- Urology
- Gerontology
- Public Health
Background:
- Lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) are common in aging men.
- Peak urinary flow rate (PUFR) is a key indicator of bladder outlet obstruction and detrusor contractility.
- Longitudinal data on PUFR changes in community-dwelling men are limited.
Purpose of the Study:
- To describe longitudinal changes in peak urinary flow rates in community-dwelling men.
- To identify factors associated with the rate of decline in PUFR.
Main Methods:
- A cohort of 2,115 men aged 40+ was randomly selected.
- Peak urinary flow rates and the American Urological Association symptom index were assessed biennially.
- Prostate volume and annualized change in PUFR were assessed in a subsample over 6 years.
Main Results:
- Median PUFR declined by 2.1% annually.
- Decline was more rapid with lower baseline PUFR, older age, larger prostate volume, and higher symptom severity.
- Men 70+ and those with baseline PUFR <10 ml/sec were significantly more likely to experience rapid decline.
Conclusions:
- A consistent longitudinal decline in PUFR was observed in community-based men.
- Rapid PUFR decline is associated with older age and lower baseline flow rates.
- This decline may indicate underlying lower urinary tract dysfunction in an unselected male population.