OBJECTIVE This study investigates the long-term impacts of childhood exposure to voiding cystourethrogram (VCUG), a diagnostic procedure for vesicoureteral reflux. Primary outcomes include long-term health outcomes, mental health disorders, healthcare avoidance, and participation in risky behaviors compared to a control group.

METHODS A 9-month retrospective cohort study was conducted with adults who received most of their medical care in the U.S. Respondents self-reported health metrics, behaviors, and outcomes via a 20-minute survey. Respondents were divided into two groups: those who remembered undergoing at least one VCUG in childhood (VCUG group), and those who did not (control group).

RESULTS Of 334 respondents, 204 (61%) were in the VCUG group (mean age: 29, 70% female) and 130 (39%) were controls (mean age: 34, 70% female). Notable findings include: 47% of VCUG respondents were diagnosed with depression compared to 27% of controls (χ² = 13.51, p = 0.0002); 15% of female-born VCUG respondents reported they would never visit a gynecologist compared to 2% of controls (χ² = 17.29, p < 0.001); 34% of VCUG respondents smoked regularly compared to 5% of controls (χ² = 35.85, p < 0.001); and 11% of VCUG respondents regularly missed work compared to 1% of controls (χ² = 11.61, p = 0.0006). These findings highlight the need for further research and clinical consideration of VCUG’s long-term consequences.

CONCLUSIONS This study suggests that the effects of childhood VCUG extend into adulthood. Our findings underscore the need to reassess informed consent protocols and consider full-scale studies to minimize bias.

The authors have declared no competing interest.

This study did not receive any funding

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The details of the IRB/oversight body that provided approval or exemption for the research described are given below:

This research and all associated protocols were approved or given exemption status by the University of Pennsylvania Institutional Review Board (IRB #852632).

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All data produced in the present study are available upon reasonable request to the authors