Prevalence of nocturnal enuresis, risk factors, associated familial factors and urinary pathology among school children in Iran

Abstract

Aim To estimate the prevalence of enuresis in school-age children in Iran and determine associated factors. Materials and methods A total of 7562 children, aged 5–18 years, enrolled in this cross-sectional study. Using a standard questionnaire, data on demographic characteristics, and familial and physical conditions were obtained from the parents by interview. The ICD-10 definition of enuresis was used. In the case of enuretics, a detailed history was taken, and physical and ultrasonographic examinations, urinalysis and urine culture were performed. Results The overall prevalence of enuresis was 6.8%. A significant relationship was found between the prevalence of enuresis and age ( P = 0.001), educational level of parents ( P = 0.001), number of family members ( P = 0.028), positive family history of enuresis ( P = 0.001), parenting methods ( P = 0.001), and deep sleep ( P = 0.001). Birth weight ( P = 0.07), monthly income ( P = 0.322), employment status of parents ( P = 0.08), ethnic differences ( P = 0.09), delayed development ( P = 0.062), drinking ( P = 0.072) or urination habit before sleep ( P = 0.06), and stool incontinence ( P = 0.062) were not significantly associated with enuresis. Prevalence of urinary tract pathology was 2.9% in enuretics. Conclusions This study provides a quantitative estimate of the prevalence and main risk factors for enuresis in Iranian children.