Advancing a Comprehensive Approach to the Study of Lower Urinary Tract Symptoms

摘要

PurposeLower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) are common in the United States leading to a significant economic, quality-of-life, and public health burden. This burden will increase as the population ages and risk factors for LUTS such as diabetes and obesity remain highly prevalent. Improving clinical management and establishing the knowledge base to prevent LUTS will require a comprehensive research approach that examines factors beyond the lower urinary tract (LUT). While the study of these “extra-LUT” factors has increased recently, current urologic research does not systematically account for the broad set of potential LUTS contributors that span biologic, behavioral, psychological/executive function, and sociocultural factors. A comprehensive assessment of potential contributors to LUTS risk, treatment response, and progression is necessary to reduce the burden of this condition within the United States.