Determinants of Open Defecation and Its Public Health Implications in Todee Health District, Montserrado County, Liberia - Abstract
Background: Defecating in the Open field has become a common practice in most developing countries. This is a decision that is made by individuals or
influenced by the environment.
Objective: The research aims to explore the determinants of open defecation and its implications on public health.
Methodology: The research employed the explanatory Sequential mixed methods design. We conducted a survey using purposive sampling, where we
interviewed 51 persons from cross-sections of the District. We used these methods to conduct Key Informant Interviews with knowledgeable individuals about the
research topic. The research participants included influential community members and healthcare providers. The interview was later followed by Focus group
discussions, during which the district was divided into four strata, with four focus groups held. Each group had 7 participants aged 18 or older. Group one: age
range 18-27; Group two: age range 28-37; Group three: age range 38-47; and Group four: age range 48 and above. The participants in the focal group
discussion were all females.
Results: 33.33% of the respondents aligned open defecation with female insecurity. Limited sanitary infrastructure and highly entrenched tradition are
identified as significant determinants of open defecation, with 41.18% and 39.22% of respondents reporting them, respectively. 47% of respondents prefer
involving traditional leaders in reducing waste, while 16 respondents (32.4%) want more public latrines built in various communities.
Recommendation: The reintroduction of the CLTS program and the development of a monitoring and evaluation framework will significantly help achieve
and sustain the program, and build a system of intersectoral collaboration involving the traditional leaders in the planning and implementation of community
development programs