Soc Sci Med. 1988 ; 27(1): 39-52.

From aralu to ORS: Sinhalese perceptions of digestion, diarrhea, and dehydration.

Nichter M.

Department of Anthropology, University of Arizona, Tucson 85721.

This paper explores popular Sinhalese perceptions of diarrheal diseases and related health care behavior. Also addressed are cultural interpretations of dehydration and perceptions of oral rehydration solution (ORS). The social marketing of ORS is considered. It is suggested that the marketing of ORS be more closely linked to education programs which promote appropriate conceptualization of dehydration. The need to more closely integrate nutrition education and diarrheal management programs is discussed.