Management Of Diarrhoeal Diseases In Children Under Five Years By Market Women: The Case Of Makola, Accra

ABSTRACT Background: Diarrhoea is the passage of three or more stools in a day. Globally, diarrhoea is the second main cause of mortality after pneumonia and the second after malaria in Ghana among children under five years old. A significant number of diarrhoea cases are often related to poor hygiene practices and inadequate sanitation. The high mortality rate caused by diarrhoea in children under the age of five can be easily prevented if the episodes of diarrhoea are well managed. This will result in saving thousands of children who suffer from diarrhoea. Aim of the study: This study investigated mothers’ management of diarrhoeal diseases within the local environment of an urban market, precisely, the Makola market. Methods: The design used in this study was descriptive cross-sectional survey. The study involved 251 respondents who met the inclusion criteria. Mothers who had children under five years were identified and recruited for the study. Analysis: Data were analysed using descriptive statistics and a logistic regression model. Results: A binary logistic regression analysis revealed that the gender of children, mothers’ knowledge about Oral Rehydration Salt (ORS) and their awareness about Zinc tablets predict their diarrhoeal management practices. In addition, mothers who were of the view that children could die from diarrhoea and also those who thought children were susceptible to diarrhoea, were found to have good diarrhoea management practices. Conclusion: Educating mothers on diarrhoea management practices for children under five years old will help reduce diarrhoea-related morbidity and mortality. The findings of the study will aid in educating women better and add to existing knowledge on diarrhoea management.