Frequency of Factors Associated with Nocturnal Enuresis in Children in Ubari, Daraj, and Kabaw, Libya

Abstract

The study aimed to determine the frequency of factors associated with nocturnal enuresis among children in the Daraj, Kabaw, and Ubari regions of Libya. A cross-sectional study of a sample of 453 parent participants was conducted using a nine-axis questionnaire. The study was conducted from February to December 2025. The children who took part ranged in age from 5 to 15 years. The number of males reached 253, and the number of females was 200. Children residing with their parents numbered 342. Among the sample, nocturnal enuresis occurred exclusively at night in 261 children (57.6%), during the day only in 21 (4.6%), and both day and night in 171 (37.7%). A family history of NE was reported in 62.7% of the sample. Key associated factors included high fluid consumption before sleep (79.2%), exposure to cold (61.6%), mood difficulties (52.1%), problems waking from sleep (51%), and the consumption of salty foods (67.3%). Statistically significant associations (P<0.05) were identified between urinary and digestive system disorders and conditions such as nasal adenoids and chronic tonsillitis. The findings emphasize that lifestyle habits (fluid intake and diet), and environmental stressors significantly influence the persistence of NE. The study recommends enhancing parental awareness and developing educational guides on best practices to improve the quality of life for affected children.