On-line Forum Provides Outlet for Incontinence Patients

The purpose of the Bladder Control Forum, initiated by the National Association for Continence, is to educate individuals with bladder problems, their caregivers, and the general public about the issue in order to improve the quality of life for individuals with incontinence. Organizers of the Bladder Control Forum want to give individuals with incontinence avenues to share their problems, challenges, and experiences with others dealing with the same issue.

Incontinence is a symptom of a variety of disorders and conditions, including birth defects, pelvic surgery, injuries to the pelvic region or spinal cord, neurologic diseases, multiple sclerosis, poliomyelitis, and degenerative changes connected with aging. A high percentage (80%) of individuals with urinary incontinence can be cured or improved. Modifications in diet or the elimination of medications (eg, diuretics) can cure incontinence in some individuals. Oftentimes, treatment includes a combination of medicine, behavioral modification, pelvic muscle reeducation, or surgery. The Bladder Control Forum can be accessed at http://www.nafc.org.