Open defecation
Open Defecation
Open defecation (/ˈoʊpən dɪˈfɛkeɪʃən/) is the practice of defecating outside without using a toilet, in the open environment. This practice is common in areas where sanitation infrastructure and services are not available.
Etymology
The term "open defecation" comes from the English words "open" (from Old English 'openian', meaning 'to open') and "defecation" (from Late Latin 'defaecare', meaning 'to clear from dregs').
Related Terms
- Sanitation: The systems for taking dirty water and other waste products away from buildings in order to protect people's health.
- Toilet: A fixed receptacle into which a person may urinate or defecate, typically consisting of a large bowl connected to a system for flushing away the waste into a sewer or septic tank.
- Public health: The science and art of preventing disease, prolonging life, and promoting health through the organized efforts and informed choices of society, organizations, public and private, communities and individuals.
- Hygiene: Conditions or practices conducive to maintaining health and preventing disease, especially through cleanliness.
Impact on Public Health
Open defecation can have a significant impact on public health. It can lead to the spread of many diseases, including cholera, diarrhea, dysentery, hepatitis A, typhoid, and polio. It can also lead to environmental pollution and poses a risk to personal safety and dignity.
Efforts to Eradicate Open Defecation
Many organizations, including the World Health Organization (WHO) and the United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF), are working to eradicate open defecation. They promote the use of toilets and improved sanitation through various programs and initiatives.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Open defecation
- Wikipedia's article - Open defecation
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