A qualitative study of community perceptions about childhood diarrhea and its management in Assosa District, West Ethiopia

BACKGROUND: Diarrhea control programs require evidences on factors which influence the caregiver’s treatment of illness. Thus, understanding the caregiver’s perception of the causes and management of diarrhea is very essential to plan effective prevention and control measures. This study aimed to explore their perceptions towards the causes and management of childhood diarrhea in Assosa district, West Ethiopia. METHODS: Qualitative research methods were employed among caregivers who reside in two villages (Amba 4 and Selga 22) of the district. The villages were selected purposively and all eligible participants were identified with the help of village leaders and health extension workers. Then, in-depth interviews and focus group discussions were used to collect data from the participants. For this purpose, a semi-structured interview checklist and discussion guides were prepared. Data was collected by experienced and trained sociologists and public health professionals. The collected data was translated and analyzed thematically. No software was used. RESULTS: Majority of the caregivers perceived inadequate personal hygiene and poor environmental sanitation as the main causes of childhood diarrhea. However, few of them related its occurrence with sucking hot breast milk. On the other side, homemade management of diarrhea was commonly practiced in the community, i.e. providing boiled and cooled water with honey and Haile Sellasie silver coin [Mariatriza]. However, indigenous communities preferred traditional medications such as Sirsafe, Bibi and Kebercho to their children when they got diarrhea. CONCLUSIONS: Childhood diarrhea was perceived as the commonest disease in the community. Consequently, diverse misperceptions and malpractices on the causes and management of the problem existed. Thus, urgent effective interventions that consider the local culture and resources should be designed.