AWARENESS AND PRACTICE ON WATER, SANITATION AND HYGIENE (WASH) AMONG RESIDENTS OF RURAL PUDUCHERRY

Abstract

Background: Water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) are essential determinants of public health in preventing water-borne diseases. Despite improvements in sanitation coverage in India, gaps still exist between awareness and actual hygienic practices in rural communities. Objectives: To evaluate WASH knowledge and behaviours among rural adults in Puducherry and identify key influences on these aspects. Methods: A cross-sectional community survey with 208 adults from rural Puducherry households, chosen via probability proportional to size sampling. A validated semi-structured questionnaire captured sociodemographic data, awareness levels, and hygiene practices, analyzed with descriptive and inferential statistics to associations. Results: Most participants demonstrated good awareness regarding safe drinking water and hand hygiene practices. However, gaps were observed in practices such as household water treatment and sanitation behaviour. Sociodemographic factors including age, education, income, family type, and exposure to awareness programmes showed significant association with WASH awareness and practices. A positive correlation was observed between awareness and practice scores. Conclusion: Although awareness regarding WASH was relatively high, consistent adoption of hygienic practices remains suboptimal. Strengthening community-based health education and improving access to safe water and sanitation facilities are important to bridge the knowledge–practice gap and promote healthier rural communities.