Prevalence and Determinants of Diarrheal Diseases Among Children Under Five in Rural Nasarawa State, North Central Nigeria

Diarrheal diseases remain a leading cause of morbidity and mortality among children under five years in sub-Saharan Africa, with environmental and behavioral factors playing central roles in disease transmission. This cross-sectional study investigated the prevalence and determinants of diarrheal diseases among children under five in rural communities of Lafia Local Government Area, Nasarawa State, North Central Nigeria. Household surveys were administered to 350 caregivers of children under five, with biological data supplemented by stool sample analysis from fifty children presenting with diarrheal symptoms. WASH (Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene) conditions were assessed at the household level. Results showed a two-week period prevalence of diarrhea of thirty-seven percent among study children. Open defecation by at least one household member, absence of handwashing facilities, and consumption of untreated surface water were identified as significant independent risk factors in multivariate analysis. Exclusive breastfeeding for at least six months was associated with a sixty percent reduction in diarrhea risk. Caregiver education level showed a significant positive association with protective hygiene practices. Households using pit latrines had significantly lower diarrhea prevalence compared to those without any latrine facility. The study recommends integrated WASH programming, promotion of exclusive breastfeeding, and community health worker-led hygiene education in rural Nasarawa State. Keywords: diarrheal diseases, children under five, WASH, Nasarawa, rural Nigeria.