Non-biological determinants of paediatric bladder bowel dysfunction: A pilot study.

Area of Science:

• Paediatric Urology
• Child Health
• Behavioural Science

Background:

• Bladder and bowel dysfunction (BBD) is common in paediatric urology referrals.
• Symptom severity in BBD can significantly impact a child's quality of life.
• Non-biological factors influencing BBD severity in children are not well understood.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the impact of personal, family, and environmental variables on BBD symptom severity in school-aged children.
• To identify potential triggers for increased BBD severity in paediatric patients.

Main Methods:

• Pilot, prospective, observational study of 53 children with BBD.
• Data collected via questionnaires on demographics, family, environment, and lifestyle.
• Dysfunctional Voiding Scoring System (DVSS) used to measure symptom severity.

Main Results:

• Most participants were female (66%) with a mean age of 8.35 years.
• Higher DVSS scores (indicating greater BBD severity) were associated with unplanned pregnancies, daycare attendance, and school problems.
• Mean DVSS score was 9.9 (SD = 4.2).

Conclusions:

• Children with BBD presenting to clinics showed increased severity linked to unplanned pregnancies, daycare, and school issues.
• Interventions for BBD should consider environmental and familial factors.
• Personal, familial, and environmental interactions play a crucial role in paediatric continence.