Demographics

It is estimated that 34 million adults in the United States suffer with OAB and the numbers are probably much higher than this estimation. This represents about 17% of the population. It is astounding that OAB is more prevalent than Alzheimer’s disease, asthma, diabetes and osteoporosis! While the problem of OAB increases with age and it’s believed that 35% of all people over age 75 experience this condition. About half are diagnosed between the ages of 35-55. The majority of people with OAB experience the “dry” version without incontinence, although women are more likely to have incontinence with their OAB experience.

•Prevalence •Cost •Barriers to Diagnosis and Treatment

 

Advantages and Benefits of Pumps

In 2007, the estimated annual cost for OAB was $65 billion dollars. Yet only 10% of these costs were spent on actually diagnosing and treating the problem! Ninety percent was spent on the complications of OAB--such as falls and fractures, urinary tract infections and skin breakdown.

•In 2007 $65 Billion •Only 10% spent on diagnosis and treatment •90% spent on complications

The Cost of OAB on Quality of Life

•Physical   •Psychological   •Sexual   •Social   •Vocational

In addition to the financial cost of OAB, there are other costs to consider. Under “physical costs” we see a 26% higher risk for falls and a 34% risk for fractures for people with OAB. Poor sleep and daytime fatigue associated with nocturia presents a significant impact on quality of life. Urinary tract infections and skin breakdown can be problems as well. Psychological impact may include depression and anxiety (what will I do if I can’t find a bathroom?), embarrassment or a loss of self esteem. They may limit or avoid intimacy experiences all together. People with OAB may isolate themselves and avoid social interactions. They may limit how far they travel in order to always be near a bathroom. Vocationally, they be unable to be as productive and may risk possible job loss related to frequent time away from their desks or assembly lines.

 

Barriers to Diagnosis and Treatment

Why don’t people with OAB symptoms get the help they deserve? The majority of people who have incontinence problems or OAB just don’t discuss the issue with their health care provider. The obvious reason here is that they are embarrassed. They also may think that these problems are a normal part of growing older. They may be unaware of treatment options and believe that they just have to get used to it. Lastly, products are so readily available now at grocery and drug stores; they may feel that they can manage their symptoms alone. And yet another barrier is the health care provider. Health care providers rarely ask their patients about these issues. It’s time we start dispelling these myths--this syndrome is not normal aging and there are many effective treatment strategies to help manage the condition.

 Rick Fields-Gardner