Type 2 diabetes and urinary incontinence: A scoping review and position statement

Ramirez-Rincón, A., Sierra-Carvajal, J. F., Altamar-Canales, G. ., Henao-Carrillo, D. C., Coronel-Restrepo, N. ., Restrepo-Medrano, J. C., & Builes-Montaño, C. E. . (2025). Type 2 diabetes and urinary incontinence: A scoping review and position statement. Revista Colombiana De Endocrinología, Diabetes &Amp; Metabolismo, 12(3). https://doi.org/10.53853/encr.12.3.947

Abstract

Context: Urinary incontinence (UI) is a highly prevalent and disabling condition among older adults and women with type 2 diabetes (T2D), yet it remains underrecognized in clinical guidelines. The global rise in diabetes and population aging amplifies its burden.

Objective: This position statement aims to raise clinical awareness about urinary incontinence in individuals with diabetes and provide evidence-based recommendations for its management. A multidisciplinary consensus process identified key barriers, challenges, and care priorities to guide healthcare professionals in delivering more comprehensive and person-centered care.

Methods: A scoping review was conducted to examine the clinical literature on urinary incontinence and its association with type 2 diabetes, following the Joanna Briggs Institute Reviewer’s Manual and PRISMA-ScR guidelines. The Nominal Group Technique was also used to obtain insights from a multidisciplinary panel of experts, including endocrinologists, geriatricians, nurses, and pelvic floor specialists.

Results: The review included 32 peer-reviewed articles and informed structured discussions on the epidemiology, clinical impact, treatment strategies, and lived experiences related to urinary incontinence in people with type 2 diabetes. The expert panel generated 57 ideas; 23 were considered critically important and incorporated into the final position statement.

Conclusions: Urinary incontinence remains underdiagnosed and undertreated among older adults and postmenopausal women with type 2 diabetes. Contributing factors include fragmented care, limited provider awareness, and financial barriers. Multidisciplinary strategies focusing on metabolic control, patient education, and improved healthcare accessibility are essential for advancing the quality of care and reducing the burden of urinary incontinence in this vulnerable population.

https://doi.org/10.53853/encr.12.3.947

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