Objective Evaluation of Overactive Bladder: Which Surveys Should I Use?

Area of Science:

• Urology
• Geriatrics
• Clinical Assessment

Background:

• Overactive bladder (OAB) is a prevalent condition affecting adults, with incidence rising with age.
• OAB is defined by urinary frequency and urgency, potentially with incontinence, excluding other causes.
• Accurate OAB diagnosis relies on symptom assessment, often using validated questionnaires.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review available psychometrically validated questionnaires for OAB assessment.
• To guide clinicians in selecting tools for evaluating OAB symptom severity and impact on quality of life.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of OAB assessment questionnaires.
• Analysis of general urinary assessment forms and modular questionnaires.
• Evaluation of questionnaire validation and applicability.

Main Results:

• Numerous questionnaires exist for OAB symptom and bother assessment.
• General forms cover broad symptoms; modular ones target specific concerns.
• No single questionnaire is universally considered ideal for all OAB evaluations.

Conclusions:

• Validated questionnaires are crucial for OAB diagnosis and management.
• Clinicians can utilize a range of tools to assess OAB symptoms and quality of life impact.
• Continued development is needed to find the optimal OAB assessment questionnaire.