Socioeconomic status (SES), often measured by education, occupation, and income, may not fully capture an individual’s ability to purchase health-related goods and services. The Poverty Income Ratio (PIR), which accounts for family conditions, offers a more accurate poverty threshold. PIR has been linked to various health conditions, such as hypertension, diabetes, and heart disease, showing a dose-dependent relationship. However, research on the connection between PIR and overactive bladder (OAB) is limited. OAB, characterized by urgency and frequent urination, impacts both men and women and significantly affects quality of life. This study uses data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) to examine the relationship between PIR and OAB in the United States.

The researchers found a significant inverse association between PIR and OAB, with higher PIR linked to a lower prevalence of OAB. This relationship remained after adjusting for demographic and health-related factors. Additionally, a dose–response relationship was observed, with increased PIR correlating to a decreased likelihood of OAB. The association was especially strong in individuals with obesity. The study suggests that PIR could be a key factor in understanding OAB prevalence and should be considered in strategies for managing OAB. Further research is needed to explore the underlying mechanisms of this association.

Reference: Lin W, Li T, Xu Z, et al. Association of socioeconomic status and overactive bladder in US adults: a cross-sectional analysis of nationally representative data. Front Public Health. 2024;12:1345866. doi: 10.3389/fpubh.2024.1345866.