Demographic distribution and prevalence of overactive bladder in Venezuela

Abstract

Objectivethere is little information available about overactive bladder (OAB) in South America. This study was intended to estimate the prevalence of overactive bladder in Venezuela based on the 2002 consensus criteria of the International Continence Society (ICS) and to ascertain its demographic distribution in the country. Subjects and methodsfrom 2003 to 2007, a multicenter, prospective patient evaluation was conducted in different cities of Venezuela. A total of 3,407 adults (38% male and 62% female) aged 18–75 years (mean, 54 years) completed a physician-guided questionnaire (OAV-V8) on urinary symptoms, bladder function, diet, general habits, and general medical condition. Statistical analysis was performed using software based on R programming for computational statistics. Resultsa 21% overall prevalence of OAB in Venezuela was measured. Females were more affected than males (25.6% versus 13.7% in males, p<0.005). OAB was detected at an early age (18 years) and continued to be more prevalent in females (males 9% and females 14%). The greatest prevalence of OAB in the cohort studied was found in the subgroup aged 65–69 years. A value of p<0.005, with a 95% confidence interval, was considered significant in all statistical tests. Conclusionthe OAB-V8 questionnaire is of value to clearly identify patients with OAB symptoms. The overall prevalence of OAB in Venezuela is 21%. OAB occurs in both sexes, but mainly in females, and may be detected at an early age.