Abstract
BACKGROUND: Every year, nearly 1.7 billion cases of childhood diarrhoea and around 525000 deaths among under-five children are reported globally. Information about parents' or caregiver's attitude concerning child health is crucial for improving infant and child wellbeing in the community. AIM: The aim of the study was to conclude the level of parents' or caregivers' attitude on managing and preventing diarrhoeal disease among under-five children in the Engela district. SETTING: The Engela district forms part of the seven constituencies in the Ohangwena region. More than half (62.3%) of the Ohangwena population lives in Engela. METHODS: A cross-sectional, descriptive study was conducted. Furthermore, 530 parents or caregivers participated in the study. A questionnaire was administered through face-to-face interviews. Factors associated with negative attitudes were determined by performing logistic regression. RESULTS: Overall, 530 parents or caregivers participated in this study. Diarrhoea prevalence among the children under five was 24%. Factors such as parent or caregiver age group, residential area, possession of radio and education level were significantly associated with attitude (p < 0.05). The strongest predictor of attitude was being a resident of an informal settlement (odds ratio of 21.9) and the parent or caregiver not being educated documenting an odds ratio of 15.8. CONCLUSION: In conclusion, a greater number (72%) of parents or caregivers were considered to have a negative attitude. Furthermore, 32.5% strongly agreed and 42% agreed that child's parents-related factors contribute to child suffering from diarrhoeal disease. CONTRIBUTION: Therefore, when planning for interventions, existing public health programmes targeting prevention and management of diarrhoea should consider age, residential area, level of education and motivation for ownership of radio, perceptions and beliefs of mothers or caregivers.