Association between fecal incontinence and suicidal ideation in adult Americans: Evidence from NHANES 2005-2010

Objectives: Currently, research on the relationship between fecal incontinence (FI) and suicidal ideation is very limited. This study aims to evaluate whether FI is associated with suicidal ideation among US adults. Methods: In this cross-sectional study, 13,480 adults aged 20 years and older were selected from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey 2005-2010. Monthly loss of solid, liquid, or mucous stool was defined as FI. As part of the Patient Health Questionnaire-9, item 9 assessed suicidal ideation. Models of multivariate logistic regression were used to calculate adjusted odds ratios. A subgroup analysis was carried out to ensure that the results were stable. Results: It was found that FI was associated with an increased risk of suicidal ideation after controlling for baseline characteristics, risk behaviors, and comorbid conditions such as depression (OR: 1.60, 95%CI: 1.24-2.08, P < 0.001). In subgroup analyses, FI remained significantly associated with suicidal ideation among participants aged 45 years and older, with odds ratios and 95% confidence intervals of 1.62 (1.11-2.38) and 2.49 (1.51-4.13), respectively. For age category <45 years, the association between FI and suicidal ideation weakened (OR: 1.02, 95%CI: 0.60-1.75, P = 0.932). Conclusions: In conclusion, this study showed that FI was significantly associated with suicidal ideation. Patients aged middle-aged and older are at high risk and should be the focus of screening and timely intervention for suicidal ideation.