Recent Advances in Understanding the Long-Term Sequelae of Childhood Infectious Diarrhea

Worldwide, early childhood infectious diarrhea continues to be a significant concern. Diarrheal illness affects the world's youngest and most vulnerable citizens disproportionately. Estimates are that over 70% of deaths from diarrhea occur in people younger than 24 months of age. Diarrhea and environmental enteropathy have been associated with growth failure and stunting. In addition, the burden of enteric disease also leads to cognitive and academic losses, thus resulting in loss of human capital and economic productivity. While considerable progress has been made on preventing and treating childhood diarrheal illness, the mortality and morbidity still remain unacceptably high. This paper reviews recent (mainly from 2013) publications surrounding the global burden of childhood diarrhea and the implications for long-term sequelae.