Prevalence of Enuresis in Children, Adolescents, and Young Adults Diagnosed With Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder

Abstract

Background Enuresis, or bedwetting, is a common condition affecting millions of children worldwide. This can be a source of distress for both children and their families. Children, adolescents, and young adults with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) are at risk of developing enuresis. They have difficulties with executive functioning, including impulse control and emotional regulation. These difficulties may contribute to the development of enuresis, as individuals may struggle to recognize the urge to use the bathroom or have difficulty controlling their bladder during sleep. Objective To assess the prevalence of enuresis in children, adolescents, and young adults with ADHD and determine whether the presence of other behavioral disorders such anxiety, depression, learning disabilities, and autism comorbid with ADHD is a risk factor for developing enuresis. Method A case-control study included 213 children, adolescents, and young adults aged seven to 23 years, with 139 males and 74 females. A total of 161 participants were diagnosed with ADHD. Data collection consisted of a semi-structured interview conducted with each participant or their parents in person during their visit to Developmental Pediatric Clinics and Psychiatry Clinics. The questions were designed to collect data on the participant's ADHD diagnosis, enuresis history, other behavioral disorders, such as anxiety, depression, and learning difficulties, and any relevant medical or developmental history. The interview lasted approximately 30 minutes. Results Children, adolescents, and young adults with ADHD had a significantly higher prevalence of enuresis than the control group (13.6% vs. 0.9%, p = 0.01). Other behavioral disorders comorbid with ADHD did not pose a statistically significant risk for the development of enuresis (p = 0.36). Conclusions This study supports that children, adolescents, and young adults diagnosed with ADHD are more likely to have enuresis than those without ADHD. This finding is consistent with previous research and emphasizes the importance of a thorough evaluation and comprehensive treatment plan for individuals with ADHD.