Global Pediatric Health (Oct 2024)

Caretaker’s Knowledge, Attitudes, and Practices Regarding the Causes, Treatments, and Risks of Diarrhea Among Under-Five Children in North-Eastern Tanzania: A Cross-Sectional Study

  • Edwin Adrian Liheluka MSc,
  • Theodora Bali PhD,
  • Eric Lyimo MSc,
  • Denise Dekker PhD,
  • Nyasiro Sophia Gibore PhD

DOI
https://doi.org/10.1177/2333794X241288524
Journal volume & issue
Vol. 11

Abstract

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Background . Pediatric diarrhea remains a public health concern. This study explored caretaker’s knowledge, attitudes, and practices regarding the causes, treatments, and risks of diarrhea among under-fives in Korogwe and Handeni districts, north-eastern Tanzania. Methods . We conducted a qualitative, cross-sectional study. Participants were selected through purposive sampling. Data were gathered through in-depth interviews and focus group discussions, and they were analyzed using thematic analysis. Results . Most participants had good knowledge about the risks of diarrhea among under-fives. However, most participants had poor knowledge of the causes and treatments of diarrhea. A significant proportion of participants had negative attitudes and poor practices about the treatment of diarrhea. A small percentage of participants possessed positive attitudes and appropriate practices for managing diarrhea. Conclusion . To bridge the knowledge gaps among caretakers and promote positive attitudes and behaviors about the management of diarrheal diseases, health authorities are urged to strengthen health education in the study communities.