Proper Hand Washing Can Lead to Healthier Living Conditions

In the remote areas where ICM serves, dirt and mud are common, clean water is scarce, and essential hygiene items like soap, shampoo, toothbrushes, toothpaste, and deodorant are often considered unnecessary expenses.

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), a good habit of proper handwashing is the most simple and cost-effective way to save lives and improve the quality of health care at all levels.

At least 30 seconds of washing hands with clean water and soap can have a significant positive impact on households in poverty. It prevents the spread of diseases and illnesses and protects vulnerable members of the household, especially children under five, pregnant women, and the elderly.

Julie, a Transform participant from Koronadal, learned the proper hand washing routine from ICM’s health lessons. In this video, you can see Julie teaching her child proper hand washing using the Lifebuoy antibacterial soap. She teaches her to lather the front and back of her hands and in between her fingers for at least 30 seconds or hum the ‘happy birthday’ song!