Approved research

Diagnosis and treatment of urinary incontinence and prolapse.

Lay summary

Pelvic floor disorders (e.g. urinary incontinence (UI) and pelvic organ prolapse (POP)) are major health problems that can significantly compromise the quality of life for affected women. Women with POP or UI symptoms not only experience physical complaints, but also encounter more problems regarding general health, personal relationships and sexual function. In addition, the quality of life of patients with pelvic floor problems also decreases due to work impairment and an increased risk of social isolation (Digesu et al. BJOG, 2005). Also multiple women suffer from more than one pelvic floor disorder simultaneously. The medical and social costs of pelvic floor disorders are therefore substantial. Our project aim to unravel the molecular mechanisms underlying both multifactorial conditions. We will perform both genetic association studies as well as expression analysis to identify the most relevant genes for UI and POP. For the genetic associations studies we would like to use the data from the UK Biobank. Aiming to identify 'repurposed medication' that can be used to treat the diseases and to develop a diagnostic genetic test for the conditions. This is in line with the UK Biobank's purpose to prevent, diagnose and treat illness in this UI and POP.