Epidemiological perspective of domestic and personal hygiene in India

When the application of epidemiology moves from mass phenomenon in a society or community to the specific family or individual level occurrences, new vistas unfold. The classical epidemiological triad, with its multi-mode influences and interactions, becomes modified as a result of several lifestyle factors coming into operation. It is well known that even under severely adverse climatic conditions, microbes are able to survive, and even propagate, if an appropriate micro-climate is encountered. This principle also applies to human beings. Many incidences of disease or ailments, occurrence or absence, can be traced to the home habitat, micro-ecosystem, human behaviour and lifestyles. Hygienic practices are largely a matter of behaviour and usually have biological and social origin. Human behaviour is influenced and determined by social traditions, customs and culture. Furthermore, factors such as health consciousness, practical knowledge of health sciences, motivation and concern for taking steps for promoting health and preventing disease, can change behaviour and make the lifestyle conducive to health. In a village or slum area, families live in more-or-less the same environment. However, in the event of an outbreak of a communicable disease, many escape the attack. While some experience frequent episodes of illness, others continue to live fairly healthily. Obviously, several social and cultural factors and associated human behaviours seem to make the difference between health and disease. This discussion examines the domestic and personal hygiene in its epidemiological perspective.