Probiotics, enteric and diarrheal diseases, and global health
In this age group, diarrhea occurs 2.5 billion times annually 1 and causes 15% of childhood
deaths. 2 Diarrheal diseases claim 59 million disability-adjusted life years, nearly all from
children in low-and middle-income countries. 3 Despite this enormous burden, these
numbers fail to capture the full impact of enteric and diarrheal diseases. Early and frequent
exposure to intestinal pathogens begins a cycle (Figure 1 A) that affects digestion, nutrient
absorption, growth, and immunity. 4 Repeated infections, with either overt diarrhea or …
deaths. 2 Diarrheal diseases claim 59 million disability-adjusted life years, nearly all from
children in low-and middle-income countries. 3 Despite this enormous burden, these
numbers fail to capture the full impact of enteric and diarrheal diseases. Early and frequent
exposure to intestinal pathogens begins a cycle (Figure 1 A) that affects digestion, nutrient
absorption, growth, and immunity. 4 Repeated infections, with either overt diarrhea or …