Association Between Overactive Bladder and Sarcopenia in Older Adults: A Population-Based Cohort Study

Area of Science:

• Gerontology
• Urology
• Geriatric Medicine

Background:

• Overactive bladder (OAB) and sarcopenia are common conditions in older adults.
• Understanding the relationship between OAB and sarcopenia is crucial for geriatric care.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the association between overactive bladder (OAB) and sarcopenia in older adults.
• To identify specific OAB symptoms linked to sarcopenia and fall risk.

Main Methods:

• A population-based cohort study involving 9008 adults aged ≥65 years.
• Utilized the Overactive Bladder Symptom Score (OABSS) and Strength, Assistance with walking, Rise from a chair, Climb stairs, and Falls (SARC-F) questionnaires.
• OAB and sarcopenia were defined using International Continence Society criteria and the SARC-F questionnaire, respectively.

Main Results:

• OAB was present in 27% of participants, more common in men; sarcopenia in 12%, more common in women.
• Multivariable analysis showed OAB associated with most SARC-F items, and sarcopenia with most OABSS items.
• Falls were significantly associated with nocturia and urgency urinary incontinence (UUI) in OABSS.

Conclusions:

• This is the first large population-based study to link OAB and SARC-F-screened sarcopenia.
• A significant association exists between OAB and sarcopenia in older adults.
• Nocturia and UUI are key risk factors for falls in individuals with sarcopenia and OAB.