Prevalence of lower urinary tract symptoms in Austrian males: update 2009

The prevalence of lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) in a representative sample of Austrian males aged 15-89 years was assessed in 2009. The results were compared with the findings of a similar study conducted in 1995.

A population-based cross-sectional survey on LUTS was conducted in 2009 in Austria. A quota sample of 1,926 Austrians was selected. The sample comprised 0.03% of the population and was representative in terms of age, sex, occupational status and area of residence.

Some degree of LUTS is reported by 64.6% of the male population in Austria aged 15-89 years. IPSS correlates significantly with age. In all age groups storage symptoms are more prevalent than voiding symptoms. The prevalence of voiding symptoms (IPSS >0) among Austrian males is 35.5% and the prevalence of storage symptoms is 61.6%. In both groups the prevalence increases with age. Compared to 1995, the prevalence of dissatisfaction declined significantly. An extrapolated number of more than 35,000 men are 'terribly' dissatisfied with their current urinary condition.

The prevalence of LUTS in Austria meliorated in Austria significantly between 1995 and 2009. This in part may be attributed to intensified contact of males with urologists in the past.