Emotional and behavioral problems in children and adolescents with lower urinary tract dysfunction: a...

Area of Science:

• Pediatric Urology
• Child Psychology
• Behavioral Science

Background:

• Lower urinary tract dysfunction (LUTD) is linked to emotional and behavioral issues, especially in children with urinary incontinence.
• Functional constipation often co-occurs with LUTD, warranting further investigation into associated symptoms.

Purpose of the Study:

• To determine if children and adolescents with LUTD exhibit a higher prevalence of emotional and behavioral problems.
• To investigate the relationship between specific LUTD symptoms and psychological well-being.

Main Methods:

• A multicenter, cross-sectional study involved 806 children aged 5-14, excluding those with neurological or anatomical abnormalities.
• Validated instruments, including the Dysfunctional Voiding Scoring System (DVSS), Rome III criteria, and Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire (SDQ), were used.
• Parents reported on urinary, bowel, and psychological symptoms.

Main Results:

• The prevalence of LUTD was 16.4%, with 40.5% of affected children screening positive for emotional/behavioral problems.
• Significant associations were found between LUTD and overall SDQ scores, emotional problems, conduct problems, and hyperactivity.
• Bladder and bowel dysfunction aggravated emotional and behavioral problems. Independent factors included LUTD, constipation, and socioeconomic status.

Conclusions:

• Children and adolescents with LUTD demonstrate a higher incidence of emotional and behavioral problems.
• Bladder and bowel dysfunction act as significant aggravating factors in this association, emphasizing the need for comprehensive management.