How do patient characteristics influence preference for initial treatment options for overactive bladder? A pilot study

Objective: This study investigated potential associations between patient-specific characteristics and preferred initial overactive bladder (OAB) treatment. Methods: Female patients presenting for OAB evaluation were offered to complete an anonymous survey. Sociodemographic factors were evaluated. OAB severity was assessed using the OAB symptom score. Personality traits were assessed using the ‘Big Five’-Inventory. Patients were educated about initial treatment options and then asked whether their preferred treatment would be lifestyle changes only, medication only, or a combination of both. Results: Seventy-nine women completed the pilot survey, in which 35.4% chose lifestyle changes, 19% chose medication, and 45.6% chose a combination. OAB severity scores significantly impacted treatment choice, as patients with higher scores were significantly more likely to choose medication over lifestyle changes (odds ratio (OR) = 1.3; p = 0.004). Education level was significantly different between groups, with patients having a high school education or less, being more likely to choose medication only ( p = 0.01). Age, race, ethnicity, marital status, income level, comorbidities, and personality traits did not significantly differ among all patients. Conclusion: Higher OAB symptom scores and lower levels of education were associated with choosing medication over lifestyle changes as a treatment option. Understanding these patient-specific characteristics may help improve patient-centred counselling and goal-directed management.