Water, Sanitation and Hygiene Practices among Households in Teshie, Accra, Ghana
S. Opoku *
Department of Community Health, Family Health Medical School, Family Health University College, Teshie Accra, Ghana.
M. Mensah
Research Unit, Family Health Medical School, Family Health University, Teshie, Accra, Ghana.
Fleischer-Djoleto Charles
Department of Community Health, Family Health Medical School, Family Health University College, Teshie Accra, Ghana.
*Author to whom correspondence should be addressed.
Abstract
Background: Prior studies have reported relationships between satisfactory water, sanitation and hygiene (WASH) interventions and improved health outcomes. The aim of this study is to examine drinking water sources, sanitation and hygiene practices among households in an urban community in Accra.
Methods: This is a descriptive cross-sectional survey. According to the 2021 Population and Housing Census (PHC), the total number of households in the municipality was 72,382. This study employed a cluster survey among 194 household heads in the Teshie Agblezaa, community of the Ledzokuku Municipality. Data was collected on water, sanitation, and hygiene indicators using predesigned questionnaire. Descriptive statistics, including frequencies and percentages were used to summarize the data. T-test and Chi-square test were used where applicable.
Results: Of the total number of households, the commonest source of drinking water was sachet water (65%), followed by piped borne water (28%). Overall, the proportion of households with access to improved water sources was 31%. Most of the households had a house-to-house solid waste collection program, 156(80.4%). Few of them, 19(14.9%) burn or bury their waste. The most common liquid waste disposal method among households was the throwing of waste into the streets 103(55.1%), followed by drainage into gutters 45(24.1%), and sewerage system 29 (15.5%). Majority of the respondents observed handwashing under running water with soap, and before taking meals.
Conclusion: Many households did not have access to improved water sources, sanitation, and handwashing facilities. The municipal assembly must take steps to improve access to WASH facilities in the community.
Keywords: Household heads, water, sanitation, hygiene