Scientific Rationale for a Change in the Composition of Oral Rehydration Solution

Diarrheal diseases remain important causes of death and morbidity in developing countries, with an estimated 1.5 billion episodes and 1.5 million to 2.4 million deaths each year among children younger than 5 years. A critical factor in this reduction in diarrhea deaths has been the widespread adoption of oral rehydration solution (ORS) programs for the treatment and prevention of diarrhea-associated dehydration. Duggan et al determine a scientific rationale for a change in the composition of ORS. Result shows the benefits of promoting the use of a single ORS solution for all patients with diarrhea, including cholera, are enormous, as has been clearly established with standard ORS.