Global Trends of Diarrhea Diseases in Children

Diarrhea is a major cause of childhood morbidity and mortality. It results from contaminated food and water sources. Diarrhoea caused by infection is widespread throughout developing countries. This review focuses on diarrhea-related diseases in children worldwide. It looks at the pathogenesis, treatment, prevalence, and mortality rates of the major pathogens which cause diarrhea in children. The major pathogens include Rotavirus, Escherichia coli, Cholera, Shigella, Parasites (Protozoa and Helminthes), and waterborne-specific pathogens. Included are the associations between malnutrition, increased diarrheal prevalence and mortality rates, as well as Human Immunodeficiency Virus’ (HIVs) association with increased mortality rates due to diarrhea. This paper explores the current treatment and prevention methods used to decrease the incidence, prevalence and mortality associated with diarrhea, and can help to promote diarrheal awareness and education.

Keywords: Diarrhea, HIV / AIDS, Cholera, Escherichia coli, Parasites, Rotavirus, Salmonella, Shigella;