Enuresis among primary school children in Jos, Plateau State

Abstract

Introduction: Enuresis is a common childhood disorder which can lead to major psychological problems. These problems usually include low self-esteem, poor school performance, and anxiety. A clear understanding of the burden of this condition across regions and communities will help in better management.

Aim: To determine the prevalence and pattern of enuresis among primary school children in Jos South Local Government Area and factors that are associated.

Methods: This was a cross sectional analytical survey involving the parents of 264 primary school children aged between 5 and 12 years. The 264 children were  recruited by a multistage sampling method and questionnaires were administered to their parents. The World Health Organisation, 10th revision of the International Classification of Diseases (WHO-ICD 10) definition of enuresis was used.

Results: A total of 264 parents of children age 5 years to 12 years completed the questionnaire. This comprised of 111 (42%) males and 153 (58%) females. The prevalence of enuresis was 12.9%. Primary enuresis (PE) occurred in 18 (6.8%) while secondary enuresis (SE) was present in 16 (6.1%).The prevalence of  nocturnal enuresis (NE) alone was (28) 10.6%, while (5) 0.02% of the children had combined nocturnal (NE) and diurnal enuresis (DE). Enuresis was more common in males 19 (17.1%). The male sex was predictive  for nocturnal enuresis (OR=2.35) and the older age was protective (OR=0.21). Family stressors (p=0.007) were found to be significantly associated with enuresis. No relationship was established between socioeconomic status, birth order, deep sleep and enuresis. Hypernatriuria and kalliuresis were found in 8.8% and 41.2% of the enuretic children respectively.

Conclusion: The overall prevalence of enuresis in the study is 12.9%. Male sex is a significant independent predictor. The relative lower rate found in this study compared to previous studies in Nigeria may be as a result of different definitions and age defining criteria used.

Keywords: Enuresis, Nocturnal, Diurnal, Types, Children