Integrated projects: water, toilets and hand-washing are the miracle cure

Water, toilets, and hand-washing are the foundation of good health. Studies have consistently shown that together, water, toilets, and health promotion activities can maximize health benefits and have the greatest reduction in diarrheal illnesses. Over 90% of the cause of diarrheal deaths is unsafe drinking-water, poor sanitation and hygiene. Good hygiene also has a huge impact on other conditions impacting child health like malnutrition, pneumonia, and neonatal disorders.

Beyond the studies, we know this to be true from our own experience in the United States. In the early 1900s, when people starting using clean water and the toilet, the results were instant - people stopped dying of cholera and typhoid.

Poop kills. It kills by the millions. Human and animal feces are the main source of diarrheal pathogens. Elminating these routes through safe water, toilets, and improved hygiene practices such as hand-washing is key to the prevention of diarrheal disease. (See Disease Prevention Diagram)

But more taps and toilets will not improve health on their own. People need to understand the links between the spread of disease and the use of a toilet and safe water for all purposes. They also need to be motivated through hygiene promotion to make a change to hygiene behaviors that have existed for hundreds and thousands of years.

Learn more about the Water 1st approach to sustainable water projects through hygiene promotion and toilets.