Incontinence affects well over 25 million adults in the United States—even if many manage the symptoms in silence because they’re largely unaware of the most effective treatments. Far too many people manage their incontinence with adult pads and diapers. As you might image, the economic landscape surrounding incontinence management is therefore characterized by rising expenditures on disposable or reusable products. The cost implications are enormous, not just in terms of the diapers and pads themselves, but related expenses like laundry, waste management, and potential healthcare visits for associated complications. But things are beginning to shift.
What Do People Spend On Incontinence Products?
According to a market research report published in 2022, the US incontinence product market was valued at approximately $9.5 billion and is projected to reach $12.5 billion by 2026. That’s thanks to factors like the aging population, increased awareness, and advancements in product design and technology.
People suffering from incontinence may spend an average of $800 to $2,500 annually on disposable products alone, contributing to a substantial financial burden. When factoring in related expenses and the lifetime costs of managing incontinence, the economic impact becomes even more pronounced. But today, people have better options.
Clinical trials and research on sacral neuromodulation (SNM) have shown highly promising results in providing long-term relief for incontinence sufferers, with recent trials demonstrating 90% effectiveness. With approximately 16% of the adult population in the US experiencing symptoms of incontinence, an alternative to the ongoing costs of a treatment method like diapers is no small thing.
Economic Implications of Sacral Neuromodulation
While the upfront costs of SNM may seem significant, a cost-benefit analysis indicates that investing in a cure for incontinence can lead to considerable long-term savings. The cumulative expenses associated with a lifetime of managing incontinence through the use of pads and diapers, estimated at $15,000 to $50,000, can far exceed the initial cost of SNM over time.
The Takeaway
The current US spending on adult pads and diapers, amounting to billions of dollars annually, underscores the significant economic burden associated with incontinence management. Sacral neuromodulation is a promising solution that not only leads to upfront cost savings but broader societal benefits. As we navigate the evolving healthcare landscape, addressing incontinence at its root through innovative solutions becomes not only a medical imperative but also an economically prudent strategy for the well-being of individuals and society at large.
Ready to learn more about treating incontinence with sacral neuromodulation? Contact the team at The Continence Center today. We’re happy to answer your questions.
