Diarrheal diseases remain a leading cause of morbidity and mortality among children under five, particularly in low-resource settings. This study evaluated water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) practices and their association with diarrheal incidence in 750 children from rural communities. Household surveys assessed water sources, sanitation facilities, and hygiene behaviors. Results revealed that 41% of households lacked access to improved water sources, and 38% practiced open defecation. Children in households with poor WASH practices had a 2.5-fold higher risk of diarrhea (95% CI: 1.9–3.3). Interventions promoting safe water, proper sanitation, and hygiene education are critical to reducing diarrheal burden among young children.

Keywords:
Diarrheal Disease, WASH, Child Health, Public Health, Sanitation