[Acute diarrheal diseases and feeding practices among children under five years in Mexico]

To estimate the prevalence of acute diarrheal diseases (ADD) during the two weeks previous to the interview among children5 years of age and to describe alarm signs and feeding practices of parents and caregivers (PCG) during children's ADD.Analysis of data from the National Health and Nutrition Surveys 2012 and 2006 and the National Health Survey 2000.ADD prevalence decreased significantly from 2006 (13.1%) to 2012 (11.0%), particularly in the lower socioeconomic status. "Frequent bowel movements" were the main warning sign identified by PCG (66.0%) in contrast to "crying without tears" (4.3%) and "blood in faeces" (0.5%); only 42% PCG reported administering oral rehydration therapy. Factors associated with ADD were child's age1 year and mother's age20 years.It is necessary to reinforce appropriate ADD preventive and treatment practices among PCG of children5 years of age.