A new report from Deloitte Access Economics commissioned for the Continence Foundation of Australia, has revealed that the cost of incontinence to Australia in 2023 has increased to $100.4 billion.
This figure consists of financial costs ($66.6 billion), as well as lost wellbeing costs ($33.8 billion), including the effects on mental health, wellbeing and employment.
The Continence Foundation of Australia is calling on healthcare providers, policymakers, and the public to prioritise incontinence as a significant health issue.
Read the full report
“The findings of this report underscore the urgent need for comprehensive support, increased awareness, and better treatment options for the millions of Australians affected by this condition.” – Dr Gian Sberna, CEO, Continence Foundation of Australia
Highlights from the report
Incontinence can affect every facet of life. Highlights from the Economic Cost of Incontinence in Australia report:
- In 2023, there were over 7.2 million people with incontinence in Australia. This is equivalent to 1 in 3 people over 15 years.
- Women are 2x more likely than men to have incontinence
- Although there is a higher rate of incontinence when you are older, 71% of people with incontinence are younger than 65 years
- People with incontinence lost an additional 8.8 days of work per year
- The average caregiver provides more than 5 hours of care per week to someone with incontinence
- 13% of survey respondents reported seeing a mental health professional for their incontinence with an average of 5 visits in the past year
- 3% of people with incontinence are not in employment due to their incontinence
“With the right support, we can improve the lives of millions of Australians and reduce the enormous economic and social costs associated with incontinence.” – Dr Gian Sberna, CEO, Continence Foundation of Australia
In the media
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Support for incontinence
National Continence Helpline 1800 33 00 66
Call the National Continence Helpline on 1800 33 00 66 for free and confidential advice about incontinence. Our nurse continence specialists are available to talk Monday – Friday 8am – 8pm AEST.