Survey of electric bidet toilet use among community dwelling Japanese people and correlates for an itch on the anus

OBJECTIVES: We conducted a survey to investigate the use of bidet toilets among community dwelling Japanese people and explored the correlates for an itch on the anus. METHODS: A questionnaire-based survey was conducted among a convenience sample of individuals, who were derived from outpatients and employees of Kameda Medical Center, and students and employees of two technical colleges. RESULTS: A total of 4,963 respondents were evaluated in this study, 55 % of whom used bidet toilets either before or after defecation, and at least 30 % of bidet users washed the anus before defecation, partly to aid defecation. Men rather than women, and older people (aged ≥50 years) rather than younger people used bidets more actively. Logistic regression analysis showed that the correlates for an itch on the anus included male sex, younger age, washing the anus before defecation, warmer water for washing the anus after defecation, and the frequency of fecal leakage. CONCLUSIONS: Nearly, one-third of bidet toilet users washed the anus before defecation. An itch on the anus may be associated with the active use of bidets.