ASSOCIATION OF PELVIC FLOOR DYSFUNCTION WITH CHRONIC RESPIRATORY DISEASES

Cough associated with chronic respiratory issues leads to a decline in abdominal wall strength, disrupting breathing stability and impacting diaphragm and pelvic floor muscle function. Previous literature primarily addresses individual respiratory illnesses and their link to pelvic floor disorders; this study examines the severity of pelvic disorders across various chronic pulmonary diseases. By understanding this association, healthcare providers can enhance patient care and raise awareness about an under-recognized issue, ultimately reducing healthcare costs. Objective: To investigate the association of pelvic floor dysfunction with chronic respiratory diseases. Methods: Following ethical board approval from the University, a cross-sectional study was conducted involving 150 patients aged 35-50 with chronic respiratory diseases; those with a history of pregnancy, obesity, heart failure, urinary tract infections, or reproductive disorders were excluded. Data was collected from hospitals with official permissions. Bladder and bowel dysfunction were assessed using "The Australian pelvic floor" questionnaire, and data analyzed with SPSS version 21. Results: A total 81 males (54%) and 69 females (46%), with occupations predominantly in manual/labor work (69.33%), a mean age of 42 ± 4.2 years, and a mean BMI of 27 ± 3.5 kg/m², indicating over-weight were recruited. A significant correlation (p < 0.01) was found between pelvic floor dysfunction and chronic respiratory diseases, with correlation coefficients of r=0.744 for bladder dysfunction and r=0.494 for bowel dysfunction. Conclusion: This study found a positive association of pelvic floor dysfunction with chronic respiratory disease, highlighting strong correlations with bladder dysfunction and moderate correlations with bowel dysfunction. Keywords: Chronic Obstructive, Dysfunction, Lung Diseases, Pelvic Floor, Pelvic Floor Disorders, Respiratory