Research priorities for continence care and urogenital health: URGENT recommendations

The Nursing, Midwifery and Allied Health Professions Research Unit (NMAHP RU) is funded by the Chief Scientist Office of the Scottish Government Health Directorates and cohosted by Glasgow Caledonian University and the University of Stirling. A key component of its focus is supporting evidence-based healthcare by undertaking research on issues related to urogenital disorders in males and females including pelvic organ prolapse (POP), lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS), and sexual dysfunction. These areas have been understudied and robust research is lacking. Yet, they are frequently identified by clinicians, researchers, patients, and carers as significantly impacting the quality of life of those affected. In consideration of the lack of evidence, and in a quest for researchable topics for subsequent years, the Urogenital Disorders program of NMAHP RU hosted an expert group of clinicians and researchers to help establish a research agenda and priorities for funding. The following report describes the process and the outcomes from the group's deliberations, with reflections from an international perspective.