Prevalence & Risk Factors
FI is thought to be very common, but much under-reported due to embarrassment. One study reported a prevalence of 2.2% in the general population. Risk factors include:
- Age. FI affects people of all ages, but is more common in older adults. It is not, however, a normal part of aging.
- Female gender. Females are more likely to suffer from FI than males (63% of FI patients over 30 may be female). One study reported that one in 5 women over the age of 30 suffered from FI.
- Urinary incontinence. Combined urinary and fecal incontinence is sometimes termed double incontinence, and FI is more likely to be present in those with urinary incontinence.
- History of vaginal delivery (childbirth). Some authors consider this to be the most common cause of FI.
- Poor general health.
- Physical limitations. 45–50% of patients with FI have severe physical and/or mental disabilities.
Read more about this topic: Fecal Incontinence
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