Stress Urinary Incontinence (SUI), characterized by the involuntary leakage of urine, has become an increasingly prevalent condition among older women. SUI can have severe effects on a woman’s quality of life. Therefore, this review aims to highlight the importance of identifying and addressing its risk factors. A literature search using both Google Scholar and PubMed for articles investigating the risk factors of SUI in females published between January 1, 2014, and December 31, 2024, was conducted. Patterns on the commonly identified SUI risk factors (modifiable or non-modifiable) were noted. Other information collected included the strength of associations and the SUI diagnosis criteria. This analysis identified four primary risk factors for stress urinary incontinence (SUI). The non-modifiable factors included advanced age, associated with declining estrogen levels and weakened pelvic floor structures, and pregnancy and childbirth, where vaginal delivery and higher parity were strongly correlated with SUI prevalence due to direct mechanical trauma. Among modifiable factors, obesity and smoking were prominent. Obesity increases intra-abdominal pressure and promotes inflammation that compromises urethral support, while smoking contributes to chronic cough, which elevates intra-abdominal pressure and oxidative stress. These findings underscore a multifactorial etiology of SUI, implicating both immutable and lifestyle-dependent factors. Consequently, targeted prevention strategies, such as pelvic floor muscle training, smoking cessation, and weight management, are critical to mitigating the burden of SUI and improving quality of life. Further research will allow for the development of effective prevention strategies for SUI, improving the quality of life of those affected.
Yu et al. (Mon,) studied this question.