Loss of bladder control widespread.

• Position: Incontinence

Although 32% of American men and women ages 33-70 have experienced some degree of bladder control loss, the vast majority have not been diagnosed by a health care provider and therefore are less knowledgeable and communicative about their condition, reveals a Harris Interactive survey sponsored by the National Association for Continence, Charleston, S.C.

The survey shows bladder control loss is far more common than most people realize and that, despite its prevalence, 64% of those experiencing symptoms currently are not doing anything to manage their condition.

Those diagnosed with symptoms are far more likely than those who go undiagnosed to be managing them successfully; are more likely to feel a sense of relief and that their quality of life has improved vastly; and are much more comfortable talking about their situation to significant others, family members, and medical practitioners.

Respondents were defined as "having symptoms" if they indicated that they have experienced at least one of the following: loss of bladder control during physical activity such as lifting heavy objects, changing positions, or exercising, or while sneezing, coughing, or laughing; not making it to the bathroom on time; worn any kind of protective pads because they regularly leak urine; or experienced the loss of a few drops of urine throughout the day.

Despite the condition's prevalence, 38%...