Prevalence of Urologic Conditions in Veterans
Author Information
Author(s): Sohn Min-Woong, Zhang Huiyuan, Taylor Brent C, Fischer Michael J, Yano Elizabeth M, Saigal Christopher, Wilt Timothy J
Primary Institution: Edward Hines, Jr. VA Hospital
Hypothesis
The study aims to describe the prevalence rates and trends of urologic cancers and selected benign conditions among Veterans Health Administration users from 1999 to 2002.
Conclusion
Prevalence rates for many urologic diseases increased between 1999 and 2002, indicating a growing burden of these conditions among veterans.
Supporting Evidence
- Prostate cancer was the most common urologic disease in 2002, affecting 5.4% of VHA users.
- Erectile dysfunction and renal mass showed the largest increases in prevalence rates.
- The study found significant variations in prevalence rates by age, race/ethnicity, and region.
Takeaway
This study found that more veterans are getting diagnosed with urologic problems like prostate cancer and erectile dysfunction, which means they might need more help from doctors.
Methodology
The study used VHA administrative files and Medicare claims files to identify diagnoses of qualifying urologic conditions from 1999 to 2002.
Potential Biases
There may be bias in the data due to differences in coding practices between VHA and Medicare providers.
Limitations
The study may underestimate disease prevalence due to potential inaccuracies in coding by VHA providers compared to Medicare providers.
Participant Demographics
The study focused on veterans aged 18 years or older who used VHA healthcare services.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p < 0.01 for renal mass and interstitial cystitis; p = 0.03 for erectile dysfunction.
Confidence Interval
95% CI provided for various conditions.
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
Want to read the original?
Access the complete publication on the publisher's website