Diarrhea Prevalence in Children Under Five Years of Age in Addis Ketema Sub City: the Case of Millennium Health Center
No Thumbnail Available
Date
2024-08
Authors
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
Addis Ababa University
Abstract
Diarrheal diseases remain a major public health issue globally, particularly affecting children under five years old in low-income regions like Sub-Saharan Africa and Ethiopia. In Addis Ababa, the Millennium Health Center in Addis Ketema Sub City serves as a crucial facility for addressing this problem. This study aims to assess the prevalence of diarrhea among children under five years of age attending care at the Millennium Health Center from 2011 to 2015 E.C. A retrospective cross-sectional study was conducted using secondary data from medical records at the Millennium Health Center. The study revealed gender-related similarities in diarrhea prevalence, with no significant differences observed between male and female children. The study included 45,970 children under five years old admitted between 2011 and 2015 E.C. Data on diarrhea cases, treatment types, and seasonal variations were analyzed to determine prevalence rates and trends. Out of 45,970 admitted, 2,249 cases of diarrhea were recorded, resulting in an overall prevalence rate of 4.89%. The prevalence varied annually, with rates ranging from 3.58% to 6.81%. Notably, there was a decline in prevalence from 2011 to 2014, followed by a significant increase in 2015. Treatment for diarrhea consistently included Zinc and Oral Rehydration solution (ORS), with a minor addition of ORS-only treatment in 2014. The study revealed significant fluctuations in diarrhea prevalence among children under five at the Millennium Health Center. Despite improvements in the initial years, the rise in prevalence in 2015 highlights ongoing challenges. The consistent use of Zinc and ORS underscores effective management strategies, but the increase in cases suggests a need for enhanced preventive measures. The increase in prevalence in 2015 E.C. warrants further investigation to address potential gaps in healthcare delivery and environmental factors.
Description
Keywords
Diarrhea, Children Under five, Prevalence, Millennium Health Center, Addis Ketema, Urban Health, Water Quality, Sanitation