Knowledge, Attitude and Practices Regarding Sanitary Latrine Utilization Among Households in an Urban Slum of Ratanpar, Surendranagar: A Community-Based Cross-Sectional Study.

Background: Inadequate sanitation and open defecation remain major public health concerns in developing countries, especially in urban slums. Poor disposal of human excreta contributes to enteric infections and negatively affects health, dignity and quality of life. This study was conducted to assess the knowledge, attitude and practices regarding sanitary latrine utilization among households in the urban slum area of Ratanpar, Surendranagar, Gujarat, and to identify socio-demographic factors associated with open defecation. Methods: A community-based cross-sectional observational study was conducted among 300 households selected by census method. Data were collected from heads of households regarding sanitation practices, awareness of diseases related to open defecation and socio-demographic characteristics. Appropriate statistical tests were applied. Results: Of 300 households, 127 (42.3%) practiced open defecation, 96 (32.0%) used household sanitary latrines and 77 (25.7%) relied on community toilets. Handwashing after defecation was reported by 207 (69.0%) participants, but only 139 (46.3%) used soap. Awareness of diseases transmitted through open defecation was low, with only 69 (23.0%) participants informed. Major reasons for not constructing household latrines were lack of money (41.2%), lack of interest (19.1%) and unawareness of government subsidy schemes (15.2%). Literacy, socioeconomic status, age group, family size and type of house were significantly associated with open defecation, while gender was not. Conclusion: Open defecation remained highly prevalent. Low awareness, financial constraints and low literacy were major barriers to sanitary latrine use. Targeted health education, behaviour change communication and improved sanitation infrastructure are needed.