Influence of latrine coverage and usage on diarrhoea incidence among children under 5 living in slum areas of Douala 5 th sub-division, Cameroon

• Published in: The Pan African medical journal Vol. 44; p. 82
• Main Authors: Mabvouna, Rodrigue Biguioh, Béchir, Adogaye Sali Ben, Nkamedjie, Martial Patrick Pete, Colizzi, Vittorio, Sanou, Martin Sobze
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: Uganda 2023
• Subjects: Adult; Cameroon - epidemiology; Child; Child, Preschool; Cross-Sectional Studies; Diarrhea - epidemiology; Diarrhea - prevention & control; Humans; Incidence; Poverty Areas; Sanitation; Toilet Facilities; Cameroon; children under 5; slum areas; Diarrhoea incidence; latrine coverage
• ISSN: 1937-8688

lack of adequate sanitation facilities remain a major concern in developing countries. While around 41% of Cameroonians lack access to improved sanitation facilities, the 2011 National Survey revealed a diarrhoea incidence rate of 21% in children under five years, two weeks before interview. This study aimed at evaluating the influence of latrine coverage and usage on diarrhoeic disease outcomes among children under 5.
a cross-sectional study was carried out in March 2016 in pre-selected slums areas of Douala 5
district. A structured questionnaire was used to collect data from one consenting adult per household. Data analysis was carried out using Epi Info version 7.1.4.0. Pearson's chi-square and Fisher exact test were used to estimate the influence of latrine coverage on the incidence of diarrhoea. Statistical significance was set at p < 0.05.
of the 384 households enrolled, 69.01% had latrine facilities, while 30.99% shared latrines with neighbouring households. Sixty point sixteen percent (60.16%) (231/384) of all households used pit latrines. Although consistent use of latrines by all adults was reported, 20.05% of children under 5 practiced open-air defecation. The incidence of diarrhoea among children under 5 years 2 weeks before interview was 29.25%, of which 26.35% were bloody stools. Diarrhoea outcome was significantly associated with use of pit latrines (p < 0.01); lack of cover on latrines hole (p < 0.0001) and proximity of latrines to household (p=0.01).
poor faecal waste management and lack of improved sanitation facilities contribute significantly to diarrhoeal episodes among children under 5. A structured strategy to improve community-based sanitation considering urban planning and sanitation campaigns would promote safer environment and reduce outcome of water-borne and diarrhoeic diseases.