Prevalence and Factors Associated with Nocturnal Enuresis Among Children Aged 6-14 Years in Mogadishu: A Hospital-Based Cross-Sectional Study.

PURPOSE: Nocturnal enuresis, or enuresis during sleep, is a widespread condition in childhood influenced by genetic factors, delayed development of bladder control, and various behavioral factors. The main objective of the study was to determine the prevalence and factors associated with nocturnal enuresis among children aged 6-14 years who attended selected hospitals in Mogadishu, Somalia.

PATIENTS AND

METHODS

A hospital-based cross-sectional study was conducted among 320 children attending pediatric outpatient departments at Banadir and SOS Hospitals. Data were collected using structured questionnaires administered to caregivers. Logistic regression analysis was used to identify factors associated with NE, and adjusted odds ratios (AOR) with 95% confidence intervals (CI) were reported.

RESULTS

The overall prevalence of nocturnal enuresis was 31.9%. Significant factors associated with NE included younger age (6-8 years: AOR = 4.228; 95% CI: 1.768-10.113), male sex (AOR = 6.456; 95% CI: 3.041-13.709), low parental education (AOR = 3.567; 95% CI: 1.385-9.185), drinking fluids before bedtime (AOR = 4.555), psychosocial stress (AOR = 3.742), constipation (AOR = 5.708), urinary tract infection (AOR = 7.211), deep sleep (AOR = 0.170), and a positive family history of NE (AOR = 10.076; 95% CI: 4.658-21.800).

CONCLUSION

Nocturnal enuresis is highly prevalent among children in Mogadishu and is significantly associated with various sociodemographic, behavioral, and medical factors. These findings highlight the need for early screening, parental education, and targeted interventions. Further multi-center and qualitative studies are recommended to improve understanding and management of enuresis in Somalia.