Abstract

Diarrheal disease remains a leading cause of morbidity among children under five years in low- and middle-income countries, including Bangladesh. Water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) practices are key determinants influencing disease transmission. This study aimed to assess the prevalence of diarrheal disease among under-five children in Chattogram, Bangladesh, and its association with maternal and household WASH practices. A cross-sectional study was conducted among 182 mothers attending two hospitals in Chattogram city through a random sampling method. A high recent prevalence of diarrhea was reported, with 69.2% of children experiencing an episode within the last five months. Only 37.4% of households had ideal sanitary facilities. Significant associations were found between diarrheal frequency and sanitation factors with significance set at p

Key words: Water, Sanitation and Hygiene (WASH); Diarrheal Disease; Under-Five Children; Maternal Hygiene; Sanitation; Handwashing; Public Health; Antibiotic Misuse