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Prevalence and Severity of Fecal Incontinence in Veterans
Amy E Hosmer1, Sameer D Saini2,3,4, Stacy B Menees2,3
11 Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Internal Medicine, Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, USA.
Fecal incontinence (FI) is common in male veterans, affecting over a third of patients. This under-recognized condition often goes unaddressed by healthcare providers, impacting quality of life.
Area of Science:
- Gastroenterology
- Urology
- Geriatrics
Background:
- Fecal incontinence (FI) prevalence increases with age.
- FI is a common and often under-recognized condition.
- This study focuses on a male-predominant Veteran outpatient clinic setting.
Purpose of the Study:
- Determine the prevalence of fecal incontinence (FI) in male veterans.
- Assess the severity of FI using self-reported measures.
- Identify predictors of FI prevalence and severity in this population.
Main Methods:
- Anonymous 28-item questionnaire administered to veterans.
- FI defined as loss of stool at least monthly.
- Multivariable logistic and linear models used to analyze data.
Main Results:
- 36.3% of participants reported episodes of FI.
- Higher frequency of bowel movements and looser stool consistency predicted FI.
- Participants with FI had a mean Fecal Incontinence Severity Index score of 23.0.
- Few participants reported being asked about or evaluated for FI by a doctor.
Conclusions:
- FI is a prevalent and under-recognized issue among male veterans.
- Despite high prevalence, FI is infrequently discussed or treated by healthcare providers.
- Increased recognition and treatment of FI are necessary to improve quality of life.
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