Prevalence and Socio-economic Factors of Diarrhea and Acute Respiratory Infections among Children under 5 years in Pakistan
Keywords:
Acute respiratory infections, child health, regional disparities, maternal education, clean water access, public health interventionsAbstract
Background
Acute respiratory infections (ARIs) are a leading cause of morbidity and mortality among children under five years old in Pakistan, reflecting broader socioeconomic and healthcare disparities. This study investigates the prevalence of ARIs and the regional inequalities contributing to their high incidence, utilizing data from the 2017-18 Pakistan Demographic and Health Survey (PDHS).
Methods
A cross-sectional design was employed, analyzing socio demographic, environmental, and child-related factors among 11,645 children under five. Descriptive statistics and logistic regression were used to identify key determinants of ARIs. Variables included maternal education, household wealth, water sources, and regional distribution.
Results
The prevalence of ARIs was 7.6%, with significant regional disparities. Children in Sindh, KPK, and AJK had higher odds of ARIs compared to Punjab. Maternal education, particularly higher education, was associated with reduced ARI prevalence, though not statistically significant. Access to clean water sources, such as public taps, significantly lowered ARI risk. Wealth index categories showed no clear trend, while child-related factors, such as age and birth order, influenced ARI prevalence.
Conclusions
The study highlights the importance of addressing regional disparities, improving maternal education, and ensuring access to clean water to reduce ARI prevalence. Targeted interventions in high-risk regions, coupled with public health strategies promoting hygiene, vaccination, and healthcare access, are essential to mitigate ARIs and improve child health outcomes in Pakistan.
Keywords
Acute respiratory infections, child health, regional disparities, maternal education, clean water access, public health interventions
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