Which condition is characterized by involuntary loss of urine associated with a strong desire to urinate?

Urge incontinence is characterized by the involuntary loss of urine that occurs when there is a compelling, often sudden, urge to urinate. This condition typically arises from abnormal bladder contractions, leading to a strong desire to void that cannot be controlled, resulting in leakage. Individuals with urge incontinence may feel an overwhelming urge to go to the bathroom, and if they are unable to reach a toilet in time, it can lead to an involuntary release of urine.

In contrast, conditions like overflow incontinence occur when the bladder is unable to empty completely, causing leakage due to overfilling. Functional incontinence refers to situations where a person is unable to reach a toilet due to physical or cognitive impairments despite having a normally functioning urinary system. Stress incontinence involves involuntary leaking that happens during activities that put pressure on the bladder, such as coughing or exercising, rather than a sudden and intense urge to urinate. Therefore, urgency is a defining feature of urge incontinence, making it the correct answer in this context.