THE ROLE OF WATER SANITATION IN PREVENTING DIARRHEAL DISEASES IN DEVELOPING COUNTRIES.

Abstract

Background: Diarrheal diseases remain as one of the leading causes of morbidity and mortality in developing countries, with the greatest burden on children under five years of age. Diarrheal pathogens spread due to poor sanitation, unsafe water and insufficient hygiene. In many communities, the lack of access to clean water continues to create health inequities, adding significant strain to medical systems that are already overburdened. By improving sanitation, diarrheal diseases can be interrupted and public health will be improved.

Objectives : It assesses how clean water availability, better sanitation facilities, and hygiene education impact the reduction of waterborne diseases and contribute to overall health outcomes in communities.

Study Desgin: A Cross sectional study.

Durtion and Place of study.Department of Community Medicine Saidu Medical College from jan 2024 to june 2024

Methdology: A cross sectional study was carried out among 200 community members from developing areas. Designed a study, including water quality tests and surveys on hygiene practices, access to clean water, and use of diarrheal diseases. Using statistical analysis, mean, standard deviation, and p-values, significance of improved water sanitation was determined. The effective implementation of sanitation methods was assessed by comparing intervention and control groups.

Results: We included 200 participants (mean age 32.4 years [±10.6]). were that the incidence of diarrheal disease was significantly lower (p < 0.05) in regions using enhanced water sanitation. Communities with access to improved water quality as well as sanitation had 60% less diarrhea compared to communities without those measures. Programs including hygiene education promoted changes in behavior — better handwashing — and promoted reduced transmission of disease. The statistical analysis showed that the prevalence of diarrheal disease was significantly associated with improved sanitation measures.

Conclusion: Water sanitation is vital in limiting the burden of diarrheal diseases in developing regions of the world. Findings call attention to the main role that practicing hygiene and public health development play in egalitarian and equal access of clean water and proper waste management in relation to disease outbreaks. Investing in sanitation infrastructure will also improve public health outcomes, and is thus an important focus for policymakers. Through targeted, coordinated government policies, innovative technology solutions, and community-led approaches to sanitation, we can meaningfully decrease the impact of diarrheal diseases worldwide.