Epidemiology and economic burden childhood diarrhea in tertiary hospital in Southeast Nigeria

Abstract

Background: Diarrhea is a major public health problem among children with huge health, and economic burden globally.

Objectives: This study aimed to determine the epidemiology, and economic burden of diarrhea in children in southeast Nigeria a low income  country were described.

Methods: The study was conducted in the Children Emergency Ward of Federal Medical Centre, Umuahia, Southeast, Nigeria. Information on their  age, medical history, and treatment received, and diagnostic tests were abstracted from medical records, using standard profoma. Both the direct  medical costs and indirect cost of the management of diarrhea as in-patient were estimated. The socioeconomic status was determined based on  occupation and education of both parents.

Results: Out of 2199 children admitted, 289 (13.1%) had diarrhea. Childhood diarrhea had peak period in January and February  with 73 (26.6%) and 87 (28.2%) cases respectively and highest 66 (68%), among children under 12 months of age, with males 71 (73.2%) preponderance, and affect  mainly 32, (62.8%), children from low socioeconomic class. Prevalence of self-medication was 43, (44.7%). and antibiotics was used in 38 (88.4%) of  these cases. The average and median costs of inpatient treatment for childhood diarrhea were USD59.3 (31.1), and USD 51.2 respectively. The  average cost of diarrhea (in-patient and loss in productivity) was USD83.8.

Conclusion: The incidence of diarrhea diseases was highest in January/ February and among children under 12 months of age, especially those  from low socioeconomic class. There is also high economic burden of diarrhea in children. Promotion of the home care for childhood diarrhea  especially appropriate use ORS, should be both life and cost saving.