Reasons Behind Preferences for Community-Based Continence Promotion

This study aimed to understand the potential reach of continence promotion intervention formats among incontinent women.

The Survey of the Health of Wisconsin conducts household interviews on a population-based sample. In 2016, 399 adult women were asked about incontinence and likelihood of participation in continence promotion via 3 formats: single lecture, interactive 3-session workshop, or online. Descriptive analyses compared women likely versus unlikely to participate in continence promotion. To understand format preferences, modified grounded theory was used to conduct and analyze telephone interviews.

One hundred eighty-seven (76%) of 246 incontinent women reported being likely to attend continence promotion: 111 (45%) for a single lecture, 43 (17%) for an interactive 3-session workshop, and 156 (64%) for an online program. Obesity, older age, nonwhite race, prior health program participation, and Internet use for health information were associated with reported continence promotion participation. Cited advantages of a single lecture included convenience and ability to ask questions. A workshop offered accountability, hands-on learning, and opportunity to learn from others; online format offered privacy, convenience, and self-directed learning.

Most incontinent women are willing to participate in continence promotion, especially online.