The project aim is to increase understanding of risk factors and outcomes of continence problems (bedwetting, daytime wetting, constipation, soiling) in children and adolescents.

CACH team: Carol Joinson, Katie Whale, Mariusz Grzeda, Alan Emond.

Outside CACH: Jon Heron, Helen Cramer, Kate Tilling, Anne Wright, Alexander von Gontard.

Continence problems are among the most common chronic conditions of childhood and many are still affected in adolescence. This study used data on continence problems and a wide range of potential risk factors and outcomes from The Avon Longitudinal Study of Parents and Children (ALSPAC: http://www.bristol.ac.uk/alspac/). The study also collected new in-depth qualitative data from young people aged 11-20 to explore the impacts of continence problems.

The study provides evidence about the factors that distinguish between children who attain bladder and bowel control as expected and those who continue to suffer from continence problems into later childhood and adolescence. Persistence of continence problems into adolescence leads to considerable distress for young people and their families. This study highlights the need for better support from health professionals and teachers. 

Findings from this project are currently being used to update the Paediatric Continence Commissioning Guide: A handbook for the commissioning and running of paediatric continence services.

This study collaborates with external organisations including ERIC - The Children's Bowel Bladder Charity. The Paediatric Continence Forum and Bladder and Bowel UK to translate reasearch finding into resources that will benefit professionals, parents, children and young people.