Diarrhea occurs when you pass three or more loose stools in a day. If your diarrhea lasts for more than a few days, your body loses a lot of water and salt. This causes dehydration, which can lead to death. Diarrhea is usually caused by an intestinal virus or bacteria transmitted through contaminated water or food. This is particularly widespread in developing countries with poor sanitation conditions.
Diarrheal effects worldwide
Diarrheal disease is the second most dangerous and leading cause of death in children under 5 years. About 760,000 children die of diarrhea every year.
Risk Factors and Prevention
Risk factors for diarrhea diseases include:
- Living in an area with poor sanitary conditions
- No access to clean water
- Age, children are most likely to experience severe symptoms of diarrheal diseases
- Malnutrition
- A weak immune system
According to UNICEF, the best method of prevention is the practice of good hygiene. Good hand-washing techniques can reduce the incidence of diarrhea by 40 percent. Improved hygiene and water quality as well as access to early medical intervention can also help prevent diarrhea diseases.