The purpose of this study was to determine the frequency of incontinence in men and women in different age groups. In a representative survey, 883 men and 1,182 women with a mean age of 50 years (18-92 years) were studied based on standardized questionnaires on physical and psychological complaints, and quality of life. Participants suffering from involuntary loss of urine were considered "incontinent". The frequency of incontinence strongly increased with age, from 6.9% among the 18-40 year old population to 9.5% among the 41-60 year olds and 23% over the age of 60 years. Women complained more frequently of incontinence (15%) than men (9.5%; total of 12.6% in the population). The majority of the participants with incontinence also suffered from urinary urge, multiple disorders of digestion, pelvic pain and sexual dysfunction. There was also a strong increase in exhaustion, gastric pain, joint pain and cardiac complaints. The younger participants were more strongly affected by incontinence. When patients complain of incontinence, strong impairments in physical and psychological well-being, and quality of life are to be expected.