The survey interviewed a total of 62,398 people across the world and found there are significant differences by region. Those from China and Japan were significantly less likely to automatically use soap and water (23% and 30% respectively), while those from Saudi Arabia were most likely to wash hands with soap and water.
Within Europe, the Greeks reported to be the cleanest, 85% agreeing that they wash their hands with soap and water automatically, the Dutch the least likely (50%).
In the Americas Colombia proved to be the cleanest with 93% agreeing that they automatically wash their hands with soap while Mexico was the least likely to agree with 32% either simply somewhat agreeing, somewhat disagreeing or disagreeing completely.
Around the world, 440 million school days are lost every year due to water, sanitation and hygiene related diseases (WHO/UNICEF 2013). It is estimated that hand washing with soap alone could save over 650,000 lives each year (Greenland et al 2012).
Jean-Marc Leger, president of WIN/Gallup International Association, said: “It is estimated that 35% of the global population has no access to safe bathroom facilities and that an alarmingly high number of people across the world are not washing their hands with soap and water, either because of a lack of facilities or bad habits.”
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