 High levels of open defecation are linked to high child mortality, poor nutrition, poverty, and large disparities between rich and poor.<ref name="JMP2014"></ref>

Ending open defecation is an indicator being used to measure progress towards the Sustainable Development Goal Number 6.Extreme poverty and lack of sanitation are statistically linked.Therefore, eliminating open defecation is thought to be an important part of the effort to eliminate poverty.<ref name="Ahmad"></ref>

The anus and buttocks may be cleansed after defecation with toilet paper, similar paper products, or other absorbent material.