The Relationship Between Clean Water Quality and Household Sanitation with the Incidence of Diarrhea in Toddlers

Diarrhea in toddlers remains a major health problem in coastal areas of Indonesia, closely related to environmental determinants. The coastal area of Kualo Beach, Bengkulu Market, has specific environmental and demographic characteristics that require empirical studies to support health interventions. Objective: This study aims to analyze the relationship between clean water quality and household sanitation with the incidence of diarrhea in toddlers in the coastal area of Kualo Beach. This observational analytical study uses a cross-sectional design involving 100 toddler households selected through purposive sampling. Research instruments included questionnaires, sanitation observation sheets, and E. coli laboratory tests on drinking water. Data analysis used the Chi-Square test. Results showed a prevalence of diarrhea in children aged under five years of 35%. Laboratory results showed that 60% of drinking water samples were positive for E. coli contamination, and 55% of households had poor sanitation. Statistical tests showed a significant relationship between drinking water quality (p < 0.001) and sanitation conditions (p = 0.002) with the incidence of diarrhea. Conclusion: Poor microbiological water quality and inadequate household sanitation are significant risk factors for diarrhea in Kualo Beach. An integrated approach that includes improvements in clean water facilities, sanitation, and hygiene education is urgently needed.