European Journal of Biomedical and Pharmaceutical Sciences

RISK FACTORS FOR NOCTURNAL ENURESIS AMONG PEDIATRICS IN QUEEN ALIA MILITARY HOSPITAL

*Mayyada S. Megdadi, MD, Aghadir M. Alhadidi, MD, Baha' S. Haddadin, MD, Amneh Z. Dawahdeh, MD, Mais A. Mbydeen, MD

ABSTRACT

Background: Nocturnal enuresis (NE) is defined as an involuntary loss of urine during sleep in children aged five years and older, occurring at a developmental stage where bladder control is expected. It is diagnosed when the behavior occurs at least twice a month. However, it can be classified as primary and secondary. Primary NE occurs when the child has never achieved consistent nighttime dryness, whereas secondary NE occurs after a period of dryness lasting for more than six months. The prevalence of NE varies and is influenced by factors such as age, sex, and cultural background. In children aged 5 years, the prevalence is 15%, whereas at age 15, the prevalence is around 1%. The consequence of NE extends from a physical effect to a more important psychological aspect. These children suffer from significant emotional distress, leading to low self-esteem and multiple absences from school, which will decrease school performance. The stigma associated with NE can result in bullying and social exclusion. Understanding the risk factors of NE is essential for effective management. Nurture studies have identified many of the associated factors, including genetic predisposition, developmental delay, vitamin D status, and psychological issues. Objective: The objective is to assess the prevalence and identify the risk factors linked to nocturnal enuresis in children visiting Queen Alia Military Hospital. This study addresses whether encopresis and daytime incontinence are significant modifiable risk factors for NE and examines the importance of psychosocial factors that might contribute to moderate but not severe NE. Methods: A cross-sectional descriptive study was conducted among pediatric patients aged 5 - 15 years attending Queen Alia Military Hospital between January and June 2025. Data was collected using a structured questionnaire filled by parents or guardians, covering demographic, medical, and behavioral factors. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS Statistics version 31. Associations between nocturnal enuresis and risk factors were analyzed using Chi-square and logistic regression tests, with significance set at p < 0.05. Results: The mean age of 500 participants was 9.28 ± 2.13. 48.57% (n = 242) of the students were male and 51.43% (n = 258) were female. While the general NE prevalence was 10.2% (n = 51); 10.9% (n = 54) for males, as 9.5% (n = 47) for females. Statistically significant differences were determined between the two groups, with NE and without NE, regarding age groups (P < 0.001), and the number of siblings (P = 0.002), income level (P < 0.001), and positive family history (P < 0.001). Conclusions: Nocturnal enuresis remains a common problem for pediatric patients at Queen Alia Military Hospital. Early identification of risk factors can aid in targeted treatments and parental education to mitigate their influence. It is important to perform a detailed evaluation on population, carrying risk of having NE.

Keywords: Sleep problems, Child, Questionnaires, Prevalence, Nocturnal Enuresis.