A Cross-Sectional Study on the Impact of Diaper Distribution by Diaper Banks on Child Health and Economic Impacts to Society

Abstract

Objective: To document the impact of diaper banks’ provision of free diapers on diaper dermatitis incidence and related treatment, as well as quantify the societal burden of diaper insecurity and the cost of addressing it. Methods: The present study was a cross-sectional study of diaper bank recipient households. Data were collected from July 2021 to April 2022. Participating diaper banks (n = 65), located across the United States, were members of the National Diaper Bank Network. A sample of parents/caregivers (n = 5,598) receiving free diaper bank products for a child in their home completed anonymous surveys in English and Spanish. Results: Children’s ages ranged 0–47 months old, average 23.9 months. Most children had Medicaid healthcare coverage (80.7%; n = 5,154) or were uninsured (9.4%; n = 647). Fewer children experienced diaper dermatitis after receiving diaper bank products (p