Epidemiology of fecal incontinence

Abstract

This chapter will present an overview of the epidemiology of fecal incontinence in different populations and countries of the world. Findings are limited to studies published in the last 5 years (2012-2017). The majority of the studies were carried out with women and adults and in outpatient settings. Only one article was found that reported the prevalence of fecal incontinence in children, and the sample was a very specific subgroup, i.e., children with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder. The prevalence data vary widely depending on the population studied and the setting. The variation in rates also reflects the different methodologies adopted for investigating the phenomenon, such as the theoretical and operational definition of the type of incontinence and data collection procedures, among other aspects.