PREVALENCE AND ASSOCIATED RISK FACTORS OF NOCTURNAL ENURESIS AMONG CHILDREN AGED 5-18 YEARS IN ALBAHA REGION, SAUDI ARABIA.

Abstract

Background: Nocturnal enuresis (NE), or involuntary urination during sleep, is a common pediatric condition with multifactorial etiology, including genetic, developmental, and behavioral factors. Despite its high prevalence, it remains underreported and inadequately managed in many settings. This study aimed to assess the prevalence, associated risk factors, and management patterns of nocturnal enuresis among children in a defined population.

Methodology: A cross-sectional study was conducted among 603 children aged 5 to 18 years. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire completed by parents, covering demographic variables, birth and health history, family background, sleep characteristics, and enuresis-related factors. Statistical analysis was performed to examine the association between nocturnal enuresis and potential risk factors, with a significance level set at p<0.05.

Results: The mean age of participants was 9.1 years (SD=3.8), with a male predominance (63.5%). The prevalence of nocturnal enuresis was 35.0%. A significant association was found between enuresis and mode of delivery (p=0.027). Prematurity also showed a significant relationship (p=0.007), with enuresis most prevalent in children born before seven months of gestation (70.6%). No significant associations were observed for gender, birth order, family size, or sleep depth. Among enuretic children, 42.2% experienced bedwetting 2-4 times per week, and 60.2% had primary enuresis. A family history of enuresis was reported in 28.5% of cases, and high fluid intake before bedtime was observed in 64.9%. Although 68.2% of parents had attempted management strategies, only 47.9% reported treatment effectiveness.

Conclusion: Nocturnal enuresis affects a considerable proportion of children and is associated with factors such as delivery mode and gestational age. Despite its frequency, effective treatment remains underutilized, with many parents reporting limited success. These findings underscore the need for increased awareness, timely intervention, and access to evidence-based management strategies for affected families.