The demand for treatment and management of incontinence is placing an increasing pressure on healthcare providers, public resources, clinicians and carers

This second meeting gathered together over 250 politicians, health administrators, care providers and patient groups. Their shared goal was to addresses the intricate issues involved in balancing health economics with the quality of life for patients and their care givers.

“There is a growing concern that the political will, funding provision, access to services, and clinical best practice relating to incontinence issues is potentially failing patients,” said Professor Ian Milsom, of the Sahlgrenska Academy at the University of Gothenburg, Sweden, and Chairman of the GFI.

‘The impact and financial cost of incontinence is hugely under-estimated.’

The clear consensus from those attending the meeting was that the issue needs to be higher on the healthcare agenda, requiring better planned and more accessible services. Speakers gave examples from several countries where multidisciplinary and more sensitive approaches to incontinence reduced the stress, inconvenience and in some cases prejudices faced by those suffering the condition.