Spatial prevalence and associated risk factors of childhood diarrhea: A cross-sectional study in rural Indian context

Abstract

Diarrheal disease is the most prevalent health issue among children under the age of five, contributing to a staggering toll of approximately 525,000 deaths worldwide each year. Despite its devastating consequences, it is essential to note that this disease is both preventable and treatable. The present study aims to investigate the prevalence of childhood (under 5 years) diarrheal disease in rural parts of India and identify relevant factors associated with diarrheal disease, encompassing maternal, household, environmental, and individual-level characteristics. In addition, the study highlights the spatial distribution of diarrheal disease across India, identifying hot-spot and cold-spot regions, along with the associated risk factors. The study utilized secondary data extracted from the fifth round of the National Family Health Survey, conducted in India between 2019 and 2021 (N=161,368). Binary logistic regression analysis and spatial clustering techniques, specifically utilizing Global Moran’s I, were employed to achieve the study’s objectives. The findings revealed that diarrhea cases are more prevalent among the poor, rural, and children of Muslim families, as well as among those residing in environments lacking hygienic or adequate sanitation facilities and in households without floors, walls, or roofs built with concrete material. The highest prevalence is observed in the eastern and western parts of India. Necessary interventions are required to reduce diarrhea cases among children under the age of five in rural Indian areas. Given the vector-borne nature of this disease, public awareness of the importance of maintaining fresh and clean drinking water facilities is imperative.