Relationship Between A Body Shape Index and Self-Reported Stress Urinary Incontinence Among US Women: A Cross-Sectional Analysis

Stress urinary incontinence (SUI) is common among women, but its link with A Body Shape Index (ABSI) is not well understood. This study investigates the association between ABSI and SUI risk in women, exploring variations across different subgroups.

Data from National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (2001–2020) were analyzed. A weighted multivariable logistic regression was performed to examine the relationship between ABSI and SUI risk, calculating odds ratios and 95% confidence intervals. A restricted cubic spline (RCS) analysis was used to assess any nonlinear associations. Subgroup analyses and interaction tests were conducted to explore the influence of factors on the ABSI–SUI relationship. Sensitivity analyses were also performed to ensure the robustness of the findings.

The analysis, after adjusting for potential confounders, showed a significant association between ABSI and SUI risk (p < 0.001). The RCS analysis indicated a nonlinear relationship (p for nonlinear = 0.02) with a turning point at an ABSI of 0.081. Subgroup analyses revealed that the association between ABSI and SUI was stronger in women with lower BMI, non-Mexican ethnicity, and those without hypertension (p for interaction < 0.05). Sensitivity analyses confirmed the consistency of these findings, supporting their robustness.

Higher ABSI is associated with an increased risk of SUI in US women, particularly in specific subgroups. This suggests that ABSI could be a valuable measure for identifying women at higher risk of SUI.