ZINC FOR DIARRHOEA MANAGEMENT IN SUB-SAHARAN AFRICA: A REVIEW

ABSTRACTObjectives: To review the evidence supporting the inclusion of zinc for diarrhoea managementspecifi cally in sub-Saharan Africa where diarrhoea remains a leading cause of morbidity andmortality.Data sources: We searched PubMed for studies assessing the effi cacy and effectiveness of zinc forthe 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 ofthe global evidence supporting the use of zinc for diarrhoea management.Conclusions: There is a signifi cant body of evidence to support the use of zinc for diarrhoeamanagement in sub-Saharan Africa. The accelerated introduction of zinc into routine communitybaseddiarrhoea treatment is critical for the reduction of diarrhoea morbidity and mortality