ENURESIS; RISK FACTORS AND FAMILY RESPONSES

Objective: The aim of this study was to determine the frequency of nocturnal enuresis in school children, investigate the possible risk factors, and to explore the families' perceptions and attitudes about the problem in a socially disadvantaged area in Istanbul. Materials and methods: The study included 252 students. Of all students sixty (23.8 %) had enuresis. These students and their mothers constituted the study group. The same number of students without enuresis matched by age, sex, mother's education and number of siblings constituted the control group. In depth interviews were carried out for the students with enuresis and their mothers. Results: The enuretic students were significantly more likely to be immigrant, to have toilet-training problems, and to have experienced corporal punishment. The enuretic children also had a higher intake of fluids. Of all students 77% had a family history of enuresis. According to the findings of the study more children than mothers reported that they were distressed and embarrassed by the condition. Gathering information during in depth-interviews was difficult because of the secrecy involved and the reluctance of the children and parents in admitting the problem. Conclusion: Our findings showed that enuresis can be a marker of stress which needs to be addressed. Families should be informed about how to handle this situation without disturbing the children's self-esteem. In developing countries where health care infrastructure is not well established school health service can be an important tool to identify and help children with enuresis.