This year's World Continence Week is from June 19-25. The theme, Incontinence: No laughing matter, tackles a common response by people to laugh off incontinence, accepting it as an inevitable part of childbirth or ageing, not a health issue requiring specialist treatment.

The aim of the week is very specific: to improve the quality of life of patients, for people having to deal with any form of incontinence, making sure there is universal access to healthcare and adequate treatments, good toilet facilities,  hygienic conditions, preventive measures, and above all the compelling desire to remove the stigma and taboos associated with  it. 

Context and facts

Incontinence is the unwanted and involuntary leakage of urine or stool. Incontinence is a sensitive condition that affects an estimated 400 million people across the world. Historically, conditions affecting the bladder and bowel have often been uncomfortable or “taboo” subjects and accordingly these medical disorders have been underreported and under-diagnosed. Surveys have shown that fewer than 40% of persons with urinary incontinence mention their problem to a doctor or nurse and this figure is even higher for those with bowel incontinence. These conditions have been inadequately treated and poorly addressed by medical professionals, despite the substantial impact on individual health, self-esteem and quality of life.

In light of this, WCW seeks to draw attention to and increase public awareness about these conditions and to give sufferers the confidence to seek help and improve their quality of life.

Vision of World Continence Week

Globally facilitate continence awareness and promotion to improve health, wellness and quality of life.

Provide a reputable forum for those seeking information on Continence Promotion and therapies.

Create a worldwide network of events and organisations that will be recognised as leading authorities of Continence and Bladder and Bowel Health information.

Further establish Continence Awareness and promote a multi-disciplinary approach to treatment.