The WASH Benefits Bangladesh, WASH Benefits Kenya and SHINE Trials: A summary of their findings

Jean Humphrey gives detailed explanation about 3 cluster-randomized trials to test the independent and combined effects of improved water and sanitation/hygiene (WASH) and improved infant and young child feeding (IYCF) on child linear growth and haemoglobin concentration.
Considering growth parameters, results have shown that in all three trials, the IYCF intervention improved length-for-age Z score and the WASH interventions had no effect on linear growth. While presenting the results, Jean Humphrey gives potential explanations for success and failures of the trials.
Based on the evaluation of these studies, Jean Humphrey concludes that new innovative WASH interventions that are less reliant on behaviour change and much more effective in reducing fecal exposure may be required to optimize child health and growth.