Incontinence in Zambia: Initial investigation into the coping strategies of sufferers and carers

There is little information on the management of incontinence in low income settings. This article provides some initial insights, particularly of relevance to water, sanitation and hygiene (WASH) and health practitioners, into the coping strategies used by sufferers and carers in Zambia. Incontinence is rarely reported to medical professionals in Zambia, possibly due to a reluctance to disclose as a result of the stigma associated with the condition. TheManagement and treatment of incontinence care process is subsequently limited, and both coping strategies and treatment received are determined by affordability and accessibility. If the global community is to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals of universal sanitation (Goal 6) and wellbeing (Goal 3), The results highlight the need for future studies and programmes on incontinence in Zambia will need to involve collaborations between WASH and health practitioners which investigate how to reduce stigma associated with the condition and increase awareness, and to improve the availability and affordability of management and treatment, considering the potential preference for traditional medicine in rural communities.