Nocturnal enuresis among primary school children

Area of Science:

• Pediatrics
• Public Health
• Epidemiology

Background:

• Nocturnal enuresis (NE) is a common condition in childhood with potential psychosocial impacts.
• Understanding the prevalence and risk factors for NE is crucial for targeted interventions.

Purpose of the Study:

• To determine the prevalence of NE among primary school children in Al-Mukalla City, Yemen.
• To identify personal and family risk factors associated with NE in this population.

Main Methods:

• A cross-sectional survey was conducted with 832 primary school children aged 6-15 years.
• A self-administered, three-part structured questionnaire assessed socio-demographic factors, family characteristics, and NE presence.
• Data were collected between 2007 and 2008.

Main Results:

• The overall prevalence of NE was 28.6%, with a higher prevalence in girls.
• NE prevalence decreased with increasing age (P <0.001).
• Associated factors included sleep patterns (P <0.001), stressful events (P <0.01), positive family history (P <0.001), large family size (P >0.002), and more siblings (P = 0.01).

Conclusions:

• Nocturnal enuresis is highly prevalent in Al-Mukalla City, Yemen.
• Sleep patterns, stressful life events, family history, and family size are significant risk factors for NE.
• Findings highlight the need for further research and targeted prevention strategies.