HYGIENE AND SANITATION PRACTICES IN QUIBAL, PENABLANCA CAGAYAN: A BASIS FOR COMMUNITY SERVICES PROGRAM

Abstract

The study was conducted to determine the effectiveness of Hygiene and Sanitation practices in Quibal, Peñablanca for Community Service Program. According to UNICEF, adequate sanitation practices are essential in preventing waterborne diseases and promoting community health. Investigating the current sanitation and hygiene practices in Quibal will provide valuable insights into the existing challenges and areas needing improvement. By understanding these practices, stakeholders can develop more effective strategies to enhance public health outcomes in the community. This study hypothesizes that the hygiene practices of community members in Quibal are inadequate, including insufficient handwashing, poor personal hygiene maintenance, and lack of cleanliness in households and public spaces. Engaging in these deficient practices significantly increases the risk of spreading preventable illnesses and adversely impacts the community's overall health. Therefore, the research will focus on identifying specific inadequacies in current practices and understanding the reasons behind them. This will help in formulating targeted interventions to promote better hygiene and sanitation behaviors among the residents. Inadequate sanitation and hygiene practices can have severe health implications, especially for vulnerable groups such as children, the elderly, and individuals with pre-existing health conditions. The absence of appropriate practices is expected to lead to a rise in waterborne diseases, increased healthcare expenses, and a diminished quality of life for the community members. Hence, this study aims to provide a comprehensive analysis of the existing sanitation and hygiene practices in the Quibal community of Peñablanca, Cagayan, to inform community programs and policymaking. The ultimate goal is to enhance the health and wellbeing of the community through improved sanitation and hygiene practices. This research is crucial for formulating a community extension services program tailored to the unique needs and challenges of the area. Proper sanitation and hygiene are vital for overall community health and are recognized as fundamental human rights. This research will guide local authorities in developing targeted interventions to enhance sanitation infrastructure and hygiene promotion, contributing to improved health outcomes and sustainable community development. This aligns with recommendations from UNICEF, the Department of Health, and the World Health Organization to prioritize investments in sanitation and hygiene, particularly in rapidly urbanizing rural areas like Quibal.