How common are continence conditions?

The numbers are shocking. It’s estimated that 300 million people around the world suffer from some form of continence condition and in the UK, there are an estimated 7 million suffers, which equates to almost 10% of the overall population.

Continence conditions affect 1 in 3 women and 1 in 10 men globally, based on these numbers, continence conditions are more common than hayfever.

But what’s more shocking than the over figure is the number of people who are suffering in silence. It’s estimated that up to 80% of people have never talked to a GP or healthcare professional about their condition, choosing to manage their condition themselves. Meaning the overall figure for number of suffers globally could be much higher.

Why is World Continence Week so important?

The aim of World Continence Week is to drive the conversation and remove any stigma associated with continence conditions. In many cases incontinence conditions can be treated, improved or more effectively managed with the help of a healthcare professional.

Are you suffering from a continence condition?

We encourage anyone suffering from a continence condition to seek help from a healthcare professional. Whether it’s the occasional bladder leak when coughing or sneezing (stress incontinence), not reaching the toilet in time when you feel you need to go (urge incontinence) or frequent leaking and feeling like your bladder isn’t holding any urine (total incontinence), your healthcare professional will be able to help. Please don’t suffer in silence.

Visit the NHS Urinary Incontinence page for more information on types of incontinence, treatments and services.

Visit the Support Incontinence website from WFIPP, a digital platform offering support and advice for anyone suffering from a continence condition or their carer.