Chronic child malnutrition affects millions of children in the world. Traditionally this problem has been linked to the lack of food, but various studies show that access to safe water and adequate hygiene and sanitation conditions are key factors for prevention.
According to UNICEF data, every day 6,000 children under 5 die from causes related to malnutrition. However, many programs do not incorporate water, sanitation and hygiene interventions (WASH), although about 50 % of cases of child malnutrition are linked to limited access to safe water and inappropriate conditions of sanitation and hygiene at home.
What have to do with water and hygiene with malnutrition?
Non -potable water consumption and inadequate hygiene practices cause recurring infections and diarrheal diseases. Chronic diarrhea prevents the absorption of essential nutrients, which weakens the immune system and perpetuates the circle of malnutrition.
An example can be found in Ecuador where, according to the National Survey of Child Malnutrition (2023), 19 % of children under 2 years suffer malnutrition and 30 % of households consume contaminated water, especially with bacteria E.coli. This situation is more critical in rural areas, where this percentage reaches 56 %
Despite the advances, numerous challenges persist. Investment in water and sanitation infrastructure remains insufficient in many regions. Hygiene education often does not receive the necessary attention.
What can we do to stop these problems?
The implementation of drinking water treatment technologies for domestic use (HDWT) has proven to be an effective strategy to reduce the incidence of diarrheal diseases and, therefore, child malnutrition. Studies conducted in Ghana, Cambodia and the Dominican Republic show that the use of these technologies allows a reduction of more than 50 % of diarrheal disease in children under 5 years.
There are numerous examples of technologies that we can apply. A bibliographic review study published in 2023 highlighted some of them, recognized for their effectiveness, affordability, popularity and successful application:
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Solar disinfection (Sodis): It consists of exposing transparent bottles full of water to the sun for at least 6 hours. Ultraviolet radiation (UV-A) and solar heat inactivate bacteria, viruses and protozoa present in the water. This system does not require electricity, chemicals or sophisticated equipment. You only need time, sun and clean bottles.
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Chlorination: It’s about adding chlorine (liquid or tablets) to disinfect water. It is highly effective against most pathogens (except some as Cryptosporidium), economical and easy to apply. You can leave a chlorine residue that protects against recontamination, but also generate chemical by -products and affect the taste of water.
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Flocculant-disinfectant: It is used when water is cloudy, with floating particles, where chlorine is not enough. It is a powder or tablet that, when added to the water, makes dirt brings together and sinks to the bottom, while releasing chlorine to kill microorganisms.
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Filtro BioSand (BSF): It is a domestic system composed of layers of sand and gravel, where a microbial biopack is formed at the top that inactive pathogens. The sand also filters particles and pollutants. It is effective against bacteria, some viruses, turbidity and certain chemicals.
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Ceramic filter (CWF): Micorporous clay, sometimes impregnated with colloidal silver. Its microporous structure retains bacteria and other pollutants, while silver helps prevent its proliferation within the filter.
The importance of international cooperation
In the Ecuadorian context, through the Eduwash project filters with hollow fiber membrane technology are delivered.
These filters effectively eliminate pathogenic bacteria such as E. coli. However, they do it without the need for chemicals, which avoids unpleasant flavors or odors, and allows a fast and consistent water flow. This facilitates more water in less time than with other systems.
Each of these technologies has its acceptance, advantages and disadvantages. However, the most important thing is not only technology itself, but how it is delivered, promoted and its use is maintained over time. The key is to educate, accompany and adapt the solution to people and their realities.
It is essential that countries invest in improving their accessructures of access to drinking water distribution networks. While that happens, these technologies allow children around the world to grow in healthier environments and reduce child malnutrition. To do this, international cooperation remains essential.
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