Factors associated with appropriate household water treatment method in Thailand

Abstract

Background: Household water treatment is a vital public health measure, particularly in regions with limited access to clean drinking water. While several studies have explored water treatment practices globally, there is limited understanding of the specific factors influencing these practices in Thailand. This study addresses this gap by investigating the determinants of water treatment adoption and the role of socioeconomic, regional, and demographic factors in shaping these behaviors. Methods: Secondary data from the Multiple Indicators Cluster Survey (MICS), conducted by the National Statistical Office (NSO) of Thailand and UNICEF from June to October 2022, was analyzed. The survey covered 29 784 households across 12 provinces in Thailand. Analytical methods included univariate, bivariate, and multivariate techniques, with binary logistic regression applied to identify significant predictors, using a 95% confidence interval. Results: Water treatment practices were observed in only 19.11% of households. The most significant factors identified through multivariate analysis were household wealth and religion. Households in the wealthiest quintile were 2.84 times more likely to treat water compared to the poorest. Additionally, Muslim heads of households were 1.98 times, and those practicing other religions were 1.65 times, more likely to adopt water treatment methods compared to Buddhist. Conclusion: Although few households engaged in water treatment, key findings reveal strong associations with wealth, religion, and the presence of young children in the household. These insights highlight the need for targeted, context-specific interventions to address disparities and enhance water safety practices across Thailand.