Access to clean drinking water is a basic human right and a critical component of public health. Yet, millions around the world lack this essential resource, leading to widespread disease and death. This blog examines the global health statistics related to clean drinking water and highlights the transformative impact it has on reducing disease.
The Global Water Crisis
As of 2023, nearly 2.2 billion people worldwide do not have access to safely managed drinking water services, according to the World Health Organisation (WHO). This crisis is particularly severe in rural areas, where infrastructure is often lacking. In sub-Saharan Africa, for instance, only 28% of the population has access to clean water close to home, forcing millions to rely on unsafe sources.
The consequences of this crisis are dire. Unsafe water is a major vector for waterborne diseases such as diarrhoea, cholera, and typhoid. The WHO reports that diarrhoeal diseases alone cause approximately 485,000 deaths annually, most of which occur in children under five years old. These deaths are preventable, making the lack of clean water not just a health issue but a moral one.
Waterborne Diseases and Their Impact
Diarrhoeal diseases are just one of the many health problems linked to unsafe water. Contaminated water can also carry parasites, viruses, and toxic chemicals that lead to long-term health complications. For instance, schistosomiasis, a parasitic disease caused by freshwater snails, affects more than 200 million people worldwide, causing chronic illness and disability.
The economic impact of these diseases is profound. In low-income countries, families often spend a significant portion of their income on medical treatment, diverting funds from other essential needs such as education and food. Additionally, illness reduces productivity, both at home and in the workplace, further exacerbating poverty.
The Role of Clean Water in Disease Prevention
The provision of clean drinking water is one of the most effective ways to reduce the incidence of waterborne diseases. Studies have shown that access to safe water, along with improved sanitation and hygiene, can reduce diarrhoeal disease by up to 58%. This, in turn, leads to significant reductions in child mortality and improves overall public health.
Clean water also has broader health benefits. It contributes to better nutrition by enabling safe food preparation and reduces the burden on healthcare systems by decreasing the prevalence of preventable diseases. Moreover, by freeing up time spent collecting water, particularly for women and girls, clean water access allows for greater participation in education and economic activities, promoting gender equality and economic development.
Looking Ahead
Despite the progress made in recent years, achieving universal access to clean drinking water remains a significant challenge. The United Nations estimates that to meet SDG 6 (clean water and sanitation for all by 2030), current investment levels must triple. This requires not only financial resources but also strong political will and international cooperation.
Organisations like the Electiva Foundation play a crucial role in this effort. Through their clean water projects, they are helping to bring safe water to communities in need, thereby reducing the burden of waterborne diseases and improving health outcomes. However, much more needs to be done.
In conclusion, the statistics on global access to clean drinking water highlight both the scale of the problem and the immense potential for positive change. By ensuring that everyone has access to safe water, we can dramatically reduce the prevalence of waterborne diseases, save lives, and create healthier, more resilient communities.