Fact Check: "I shit in my pants as an adult"
What We Know
The claim that an adult may experience involuntary bowel movements, colloquially referred to as "shitting in pants," is not uncommon and can be associated with various medical conditions. According to the National Association for Continence, urinary incontinence affects a significant portion of the adult population, with estimates suggesting that as many as 25 million Americans experience some form of urinary incontinence, which can sometimes be accompanied by fecal incontinence (source-5).
The prevalence of fecal incontinence, specifically, varies widely in studies, with some reporting rates as high as 15% among adults aged 70 and older (source-2). Furthermore, a study published by the CDC indicates that many individuals with incontinence do not report their symptoms to healthcare providers, suggesting that the actual incidence may be underreported (source-3).
Analysis
The claim that an adult can experience fecal incontinence is supported by substantial evidence from reputable sources. The National Institutes of Health (NIH) outlines that various factors, including age, neurological disorders, and gastrointestinal conditions, can contribute to fecal incontinence (source-1).
However, the reliability of the sources varies. The National Association for Continence is a credible organization focused on educating the public about incontinence, while the CDC is a well-respected government agency that provides statistical data on health-related issues. Both sources provide statistical data and insights that support the claim of fecal incontinence among adults.
Despite this, the specific claim lacks context regarding the individual's circumstances, such as underlying health conditions or situational factors that could lead to such an occurrence. Therefore, while the phenomenon of adults experiencing fecal incontinence is well-documented, the claim itself requires further investigation into the specific context and individual experiences.
Conclusion
Needs Research. While the claim that adults can experience fecal incontinence is supported by credible sources, the specific circumstances surrounding the claim are not detailed. Further research is needed to understand the individual's health status, potential medical conditions, and the broader context of their experience.
