International Neuropsychiatric Disease Journal

Background: Enuresis is the involuntary passage of urine on oneself after the age when bladder control should have been achieved. Before the age of 6 years, most children have achieved bladder control. However, it is not uncommon for older children to have enuresis, and this may be associated with psychosocial issues, including depression. The study aims to determine the burden of enuresis among secondary school adolescents in Port Harcourt, Rivers State.

Subjects/Methods: A cross-sectional study was carried out in 2024 among 344 students. A multistage sampling technique was used. Study instruments include a self-administered questionnaire for socio-demographic data, childhood urinary incontinence questionnaire, the paediatric urinary incontinence quality of life instrument, and the Patient Health Questionnaire-9. SPSS version 25 was used for analysis, and the level of significance was set at p ≤ 0.05.

Results: A total of 344 students participated, 200 (58.1%) males and 144 (41.9%) females. Their ages ranged from 10 to 16 years (mean 13.9 ± 1.2 years). Sixty males (30.0%) had enuresis compared to 29 (20.1%) females. (χ² = 4.23, p = 0.04). Enuresis was significantly associated with a higher birth order, polygamous family setting, constipation, and a family history of enuresis. Children with enuresis had higher depressive symptoms and lower quality of life in all domains. (OR 28.7, 95% CI: 14.24-57.93, p< 0.001).

Conclusion: Enuresis is not uncommon among adolescents in Port Harcourt, with associated significant familial and psychosocial factors. The need to identify these adolescents early and institute medical intervention that will include mental health services is very crucial.