Study Reveals Poor Sanitation as Key Risk Factor for Respiratory Infections in Nigerian Children
Poor sanitation has emerged as the leading risk factor for acute respiratory infections (ARIs) among children under five in Nigeria, with the northern region most affected.
Dr. Oluwaseun Addie, a medical geography expert and member of the Olympic Consciousness Initiative, said in Ibadan that research using recent national survey data shows ARIs account for nearly 20% of global deaths in children under five.
In Northern Nigeria, he noted, other factors such as low-quality housing, poverty, and early childbearing among young mothers further drive the high rates of infection.
The study revealed that the causes of ARIs vary across states, underscoring the need for location-specific interventions. In some states, improving sanitation should take priority, while in others, tackling poverty and poor housing conditions may have a greater impact.
Addie emphasized that targeted, evidence-based strategies are vital to protect children’s health and save lives.
