Critical observations of the International Prostate Symptoms Score questionnaire and proposal for amendments to simplify and improve its quality: A review

The International Prostate Symptoms Score (IPSS) is an important tool for evaluation and research in benign prostatic hyperplasia related lower urinary tract symptoms in men. It has also been validated in many languages. This article discusses issues observed in the symptoms domains, as well as issues related to the intensity of the numeracy in the scoring parameters. The objectives of this article are to analyse what could be improved on the IPSS questionnaire and to discuss a proposal for amendments. Such amendments include putting nocturia as the first question, modifying other questions, allowing maximum subjectivity for the patient, modifying the scoring system to reduce intense numeracy for the patient and adding a new section on fluid intake and medication. This would hopefully simplify the questionnaire for patients, improve its quality as well as improve communication between patients, family physicians and urologists.