What Are the Benefits of Hand Washing?

Children often hear parents or teachers reminding them to wash their hands throughout the day, but adults could use some reminding as well. A 2003-04 Minnesota Department of Health study observed hand washing behavior in public restrooms at three events 1. Observations revealed that 64 to 75 percent of females washed their hands after using the bathroom. Only 30 to 51 percent of males washed their hands. Keeping in mind some of the major health benefits of hand washing may help you commit to the practice.

Reduces Risk in Medical Settings

Hand washing is a simple yet vital behavior in hospitals and other medical facilities. Its importance was first realized in a Vienna hospital in the 19th century. Maternity patients were dying at a high rate. Dr. Ignaz Semmelweis started ordering his staff members to wash their hands before treating the patients, drastically lowering the death rate as a result. The transfer of bacteria from cadavers to the patients from the staff's hands was the culprit in the deaths. Ensuring that today's medical professionals make hand washing a priority is essential.

Lowers Risk of Diarrhea and Intestinal Problems

The Disadvantages of Hand Sanitizers

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Washing hands lowers the risk of having diarrhea and developing intestinal infections, an important benefit particularly for children. Diarrheal disease is one of the leading causes of death in children under 5 throughout the world. Contact with fecal matter causes such illnesses and can be prevented by washing hands with soap. It may also prevent complications connected to intestinal worms.

Prevents Eye Infections

The spread of bacterial eye infections, such as trachoma, can be reduced through regular hand washing. It can also lower the likelihood of contracting conjunctivitis, or pink eye. This irritating eye condition causes eye pain, itching, light sensitivity and discharge. It is spread a number of ways, with the most common being through viruses. Always wash your hands before putting in contacts, as being a contacts wearer increases your risk of having pink eye.

Lowers Respiratory Infection Risk

CRV Infections

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You can lower your chances of developing an acute respiratory infection by making hand washing a priority. The pathogens that cause respiratory complications are commonly found on surfaces and hands. Some of the pathogens associated with diarrhea also cause respiratory problems. Hand washing significantly reduces your chances of getting sick.