Knowledge and practice regarding Diarrheal Diseases and Drinking Water Usage in Kanyakumari district, South India.
Journal Title: National Journal of Research in Community Medicine - Year 2017, Vol 6, Issue 3
Abstract
Introduction: Acute diarrheal diseases account for about 8% of deaths among under 5 children in India. Approximately 88% of diarrheal diseases are attributed to unsafe water supply, inadequate sanitation and hygiene. Proper knowledge about diarrhea and its prevention is essential for the people to practice adequate control measures. Proper water usage and handling practice also play an important role in control of diarrheal / water borne diseases. Objectives: to assess 1) knowledge and practice regarding diarrheal diseases and 2) the drinking water practices among the population of Arumanai panchayat of Kanyakumari district in South India. Material & Methods: A cross sectional study was done among households of Arumanai panchayat of Kanyakumari district between September and November 2015. 150 households that have been residing in the area for > 6 months were included. Data was collected using a pretested semistructured questionnaire Results: Among the respondents, 26.7% (40) believed microorganisms to be a cause of diarrhea, while88% believed that boiling renders the water safe for drinking purposes. Only 50.7% had prepared Oral Rehydration Solution (ORS) during the last episode of Diarrhea. 40.7% of the respondents washed their hands with soap and water before eating food and only 24% did it after defecation. Half of the households used covered well as their source of drinking water & 97.3% had a toilet at home. 86% boil water used for drinking purposes but only 27.3% boil water for 10 minutes. 44% household do not clean their well frequently & 20.7% use chlorination. Conclusions: The degree of knowledge and practice regarding diarrheal diseases and the drinking water practices was found to be inconsistent. The knowledge and use of ORS is better than what is seen in many studies done in India. The community needs further Behaviour change communication including training on proper treatment of water.
Authors and Affiliations
Sudhir Ben Nelson. B. T, Priya R Panicker, Lakshmi Nandakumar, Krishnaveni Malaichamy
Keywords
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