Caregivers' knowledge and health-seeking behaviors for diarrheal disease treatment among children under 5 years of age in Lao PDR: A mixed-methods study in a community setting

Phonevilai Santisouk; Viengnakhone Vongxay; Phouthong Phommavongsa; Souksamone thongmixay; Kongmany Chaleunvong; Alongkone Phengsavanh

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Caregivers' knowledge and health-seeking behaviors for diarrheal disease treatment among children under 5 years of age in Lao PDR: A mixed-methods study in a community setting

Author: Phonevilai Santisouk ¹ ; Viengnakhone Vongxay ¹ ; Phouthong Phommavongsa ¹ ; Souksamone thongmixay ¹ ; Kongmany Chaleunvong ² ; Alongkone Phengsavanh ³
Author Information

1. Faculty of Public health, University of Health Sciences, Vientiane Capital, Lao PDR
2. Institute of Research and Education Development, University of Health Sciences, Lao PDR
3. Faculty of Medicine, University of Health Sciences, Vientiane Capital, Lao PDR
Collective Name:LMJ
Publication Type:Journal Article
Keywords: Caregiver knowledge, health seeking, diarrhea, children
From:Lao Medical Journal 2024;15(15):19-31
CountryLao People's Democratic Republic
Language:Lao
Abstract: Background and rationale: :Diarrhea is the leading cause of death in children under five years of age. Most deaths are due to dehydration and inadequate management. The knowledge of caregivers in managing diarrhea tends to be related to outcomes. However, these issues can be addressed through the management and treatment of diarrhea in children to prevent dehydration by providing adequate fluids from the start, continuing to feed, and providing oral rehydration solutions.
Objective: :To determine the prevalence of diarrhea, describe care-seeking behaviors, and determine the proportion of appropriate health-seeking behaviors for diarrhea and the level of caregiver knowledge about diarrhea in children aged 6-59 months.
Methodology: :This study was a cross-sectional study was conducted with 445 mothers/caregivers of children who had experienced childhood diarrhea in Kaysone, Oudomphon, Atsaphangthong, and Sungkhone districts of Savannakhet province using a quantitative questionnaire. Qualitative studies were also conducted with 10 FGDs, one in each village FGD and each village consisted of 6 participants. A research assistant will do this with the lead researcher who will observe the participants’ responses.
Results: :This study found that 1/3 of caregivers also had poor health-seeking behavior. The results showed that factors associated with health-seeking behavior were female gender (AOR=0.56; p=0.05), high knowledge (AOR=0.20; p=0.001), positive attitude towards diarrhea (AOR=0.36; p<0.001) and no service fee, insurance (AOR=3.69; p<0.001).
Conclusion: :The study recommends that the Ministry of Health create a program to help address diarrhea in children under 5 years of age to help educate mothers about identifying signs and symptoms, causes, prevention measures, and management of diarrhea.
Full text:2026030311113285768ບົດທີ 02. JR_Phonevilai_Manuscript_Lao version (Format LMJ_15).pdf