Characterization of older adults diagnosed with anal incontinence
Keywords:
Anal incontinence, older adults, Quality of lifeAbstract
Introduction: Anal incontinence refers to the inability to control the expulsion of stool, which can lead to embarrassing situations and limit the individual's social activity and autonomy.
Objective: To characterize older adults diagnosed with anal incontinence
Methods: An observational, descriptive study was conducted with 48 patients diagnosed with anal incontinence who attended the coloproctology clinic at Comandante Manuel Fajardo Hospital in Havana during the period from May 2023 to May 2025. The compliance with the diagnostic criteria for anal incontinence was evaluated, as well as adherence to inclusion and exclusion criteria.
Results: The highest prevalence was found in the age group of 80 and older, accounting for 45,8 %, and among females, with a total of 38 older women (79,2 %). Multiparity, episiotomies, and anorectal interventions were the most representative factors, with rates of 31,3 %, 25 %, and 18,8 %, respectively. Twenty-eight older adults presented with total incontinence, constituting 58,3 %. Additionally, 30% of the patients were diagnosed with some degree of rectal prolapse.
Conclusions: Anal incontinence in older adults is common but treatable and represents a health issue that can significantly affect quality of life. It is essential to obtain an accurate diagnosis and a personalized treatment plan that helps improve the quality of life for this population group.
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Copyright (c) 2026 Yoandra Benitez González, Christian Rafael Bravo Encalada, Andrea G Puentestar Jaramillo, Roberto Carlos Morejón Alderete, Geovany Pérez Curbelo
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