Effects of Community Health Improvement Process on Sanitary Latrine Usage in a Rural Village of Villupuram District,...

In most developing countries, open defecation is the "way of life." Worldwide 2.0 billion population still lack basic sanitation facilities and they continue to practice open defecation. Despite developing many programs, open air defecation remains common among rural population. This study aims to bring a behavioral change among individuals who practice open air defecation.

A baseline survey was conducted, among all residents using a structured questionnaire. Then an in-depth interview was conducted to find out the factors contributing latrine usage and open defecation practice. Six monthly community-based interventions promoting latrine usage was given through various methods. At the end of 6 months an end-line survey was conducted among the same participants as base-line survey to see the change in their practice. Analysis was conducted using SPSS software. Socio demographic factors, housing condition, waste disposal, latrine availability, latrine usage, reasons for sanitary latrine usage and reasons for open defecation were described as frequency and proportions. McNemer test was used to measure the P value (Comparing the sanitary latrine usage before and after intervention). P value less than 0.05 was considered statistically significant.

Out of 57 households, 40 (70.2%) had latrine facility at the end of 6 months intervention compared to 33 (57.9%) in baseline survey and out of 223 individuals, 123 (55.2%) individuals were using latrine during end-line survey versus 92 (41.3%) individuals in baseline survey. There was a 13.9% increase in latrine usage following intervention. Improper drainage facility, cultural beliefs, unavailability of latrine, habitual practice, and smell when latrine is being used were some factors associated with open defecation practice.

Community health improvement process has led to change in behavior among the study population and the practice of open defecation has reduced among some individuals. Community had varied perception regarding advantages and disadvantages of using sanitary latrine that was addressed during the intervention.