The Most Important Invention – the Toilet?

childrensprize Blog September 12, 2013 | 0

http://youtu.be/XDp8lTCz3Nw

If someone were to ask you what the most important contribution to international health has been EVER, what would you say? Vaccines? Penicillin? Most people are surprised to learn that the invention that has saved the most lives since it’s inception is actually the toilet.

Diarrhea is the second leading cause of death in children around the world. Access to toilets literally saves lives. But 2.5 million people still lack improved sanitation. In fact, around the world more people have cell phones than access to a toilet.

Toilets were first exhibited in 1851 prompting the first major instillation in England. By 1907 most upper class houses, and the majority of public spaces had been outfitted with restrooms. Since then the toilet has been an undeniable aspect of modernity, and the prevention of nearly 50 diseases that can be spread through human feces- the most notable of which are dysentery, cholera, and typhoid. Toilets are a vital part of increasing global health, and will play an unmistakable role in decreasing death and disease from water related illnesses around the world.

Did you know that World Toilet Day is on November 19th, 2013?

Well, you do now! So, come and join us in raising awareness for the need for toilets and proper sanitation.

International Health World Access Typhoid Toilets Sanitation Restrooms Public Spaces Proper Sanitation Penicillin Modernity Leading Cause Of Death In Children Instillation Human Feces Dysentery Death And Disease Cholera Leading Cause Of Death Cause Of Death Global Health Vaccines Children Around The World