Global Prevalence and Incidence of Incontinence‐Associated Dermatitis in Adults: A Systematic Review and Meta‐Analysis

AIM: To estimate the prevalence and incidence of incontinence-associated dermatitis in adults with incontinence across healthcare settings. DESIGN: Systematic review and meta-analysis. METHODS: Observational studies reporting prevalence or incidence of incontinence-associated dermatitis in adults with incontinence were included. Risk of bias was assessed using a validated tool. Pooled estimates were calculated using random-effects meta-analysis. Subgroup and sensitivity analyses were conducted for prevalence studies and meta-regression examined heterogeneity. DATA SOURCES: MEDLINE, EMBASE and CINAHL were searched from database inception to 20 October 2025. RESULTS: Twenty-eight studies including 270,719 adults with incontinence were identified across hospital, nursing home and community settings. Twenty studies reported prevalence. Among eight low-risk of bias studies, the pooled prevalence was 14.2%, compared with 22.7% across all prevalence studies. Eight studies reported incidence. Pooled analysis of studies in intensive care units showed a cumulative incidence of 33.1%, while one nursing home study reported 5.5%. Prevalence was similar in hospitals and community settings and lower in nursing homes. Prevalence was highest in faecal incontinence, followed by double and urinary incontinence. CONCLUSION: Incontinence-associated dermatitis is common among adults with incontinence across healthcare settings. The high prevalence and incidence highlight the need for effective prevention and management strategies. IMPLICATIONS FOR THE PROFESSION AND/OR PATIENT CARE: High occurrence rates highlight the need for systematic risk assessment, preventive skin care strategies and early management in nursing practice. IMPACT: This study addresses the lack of epidemiological evidence on incontinence-associated dermatitis. Findings show the condition is frequent among adults with incontinence across care settings. Results are relevant for nurses responsible for continence care and skin integrity. REPORTING METHOD: This review was conducted in accordance with the preferred reporting items for systematic reviews and meta-analyses guidelines. PATIENT OR PUBLIC CONTRIBUTION: This study did not include patient or public involvement in its design, conduct, or reporting. REGISTRATION: PROSPERO (CRD42024549106), registered 02/06/2024.