Monday, June 17 to Sunday, June 23 marks World Continence Week, and the Continence Foundation of Australia (CoFA) is urging Australians to engage in open and honest conversations with friends, family, and health professionals about incontinence.

This year's theme, "Let’s Talk," underpins a 2023 consumer survey commissioned by CoFA, aimed at understanding community perceptions and experiences of incontinence, as well as the quality of life and wellbeing of those affected and their carers. Over 2,000 Australians participated, representing a broad cross-section of the population in terms of age, gender, and geography.

Key findings from the survey reveal:

·          74% of respondents believe that community awareness around bladder and bowel health is lacking.

·          46% of those who have or had incontinence have not discussed it with friends or family, a rise from the previous year.

·          Over 39% cited embarrassment as the primary reason for their silence.

Janie Thompson, National Continence Helpline Manager, highlights the isolation many people with incontinence feel. “Whether it’s shopping, going for walks, or catching up with friends, people with symptoms of incontinence may avoid going out in public due to fear of having an accident, which can severely impact their mental health,” she explains.

Despite the discomfort surrounding discussions about incontinence, there is a willingness to talk under certain conditions. Among the 33% of respondents who had not spoken to a health professional, many indicated they would be encouraged to do so if the professional initiated the conversation or if relevant information was displayed.

With over five million Australians experiencing incontinence, fostering open dialogues is essential for reducing stigma and building confidence among those affected. “While sharing incontinence experiences may be uncomfortable at first, overcoming this barrier allows for greater understanding and support from loved ones,” says Janie. “As evidenced by those surveyed, talking with their friends and family about incontinence can significantly improve the lives of the one in four Australians with incontinence.”

As World Continence Week approaches, CoFA encourages everyone—local governments, corporations, community groups, clubs, and individuals—to initiate and engage in open conversations about incontinence. Let’s talk about incontinence.

For more information on incontinence and how to support those experiencing it, please visit Continence Foundation of Australia.