The association between lower urinary tract symptoms and depressive symptoms in older Korean adults: a cross-sectional study

This study aimed to investigate the relationship between lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) and depressive symptoms in Korean adults aged 60 and above. We prospectively collected data from 524 older adults (68.7% male, 31.3% female) who visited a community center called Bitgoeul Senior Health Town, Gwangju, Korea, between 2021 and 2022. The mean age of the participants was 77.78 +/- 5.44 years. All participants completed a set of questionnaires, including the International Prostate Geriatric Depression Scale Short Form (GDS-SF). The mean total IPSS score was 8.76 +/- 6.10, the mean SMCQ 3.68 +/- 2.66, and the mean GDS-SF score 2.75 +/- 3.15, respectively. Severe voiding symptoms were more prevalent in older adults with advanced age, insomnia and high SMCQ and GDS-SF scores. Multivariable analyses revealed that IPSS was significantly associated with depressive symptoms (beta = 3.233, p < 0.001). Furthermore, female gender (95% confidence interval (CI): 1.11-4.07, odds ratio (OR) = 2.12, p = 0.023). Moderate or severe IPSS scores (95% CI: 1.03-2.98, OR = 1.75, p = 0.040) and high SMCQ scores (95% CI: 2.14-6.15, OR = 3.62, p < 0.001) were identified as independent risk factors for depression in older adults. Our findings indicate a significant association between the severity of subjective voiding symptoms and depressive symptoms in older Korean adults. These results underscore the necessity of assessing and managing LUTS in this demographic, considering patients' mental health and overall well-being.