Fecal Incontinence: Prevalence, Severity, and Quality of Life Data
Author Information
Author(s): Eva H. Alsheik, Thomas Coyne, Sara K. Hawes, Laleh Merikhi, Scott P. Naples, Nandhakumar Kanagarajan, James C. Reynolds, Scott E. Myers, Asyia S. Ahmad
Primary Institution: Drexel University College of Medicine
Hypothesis
We hypothesized that we could increase the identification of patients with fecal incontinence by direct questioning during a routine gastroenterology office visit.
Conclusion
Identifying and treating patients with loose stool is a potential strategy to improve quality of life in this patient population.
Supporting Evidence
- 12% of patients reported fecal incontinence when directly asked, compared to only 2.4% in retrospective data.
- Women with fecal incontinence had a significantly lower quality of life score than men.
- Patients with loose/watery stools reported significantly lower quality of life scores compared to those with formed stools.
Takeaway
Doctors should ask patients directly about fecal incontinence to help identify more cases, which can lead to better treatment and improved quality of life.
Methodology
The study involved directly questioning 500 patients about fecal incontinence and reviewing 500 charts for retrospective data.
Potential Biases
Potential bias due to patients' reluctance to report symptoms and varying levels of education affecting understanding.
Limitations
The study did not administer an overall quality of life questionnaire and lacked a strict definition for fecal incontinence.
Participant Demographics
The study included 500 patients, with 74% being women and an average age of 51.7 years.
Statistical Information
P-Value
<0.03
Confidence Interval
95% CI −0.68 to −0.36
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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