Zinc for diarrhoea management in Sub-Saharan Africa: a review.

ABSTRACT

OBJECTIVES: To review the evidence supporting the inclusion of zinc for diarrhoea management specifically in sub-Saharan Africa where diarrhoea remains a leading cause of morbidity and mortality. DATA SOURCES We searched PubMed for studies assessing the efficacy and effectiveness of zinc for the treatment and prevention of common childhood morbidities. STUDY SELECTION We included only studies conducted in sub-Saharan Africa. DATA SYNTHESIS: Details of studies conducted in sub-Saharan Africa are presented in the context of the global evidence supporting the use of zinc for diarrhoea management. CONCLUSIONS: There is a significant body of evidence to support the use of zinc for diarrhoea management in sub-Saharan Africa. The accelerated introduction of zinc into routine community-based diarrhoea treatment is critical for the reduction of diarrhoea morbidity and mortality.