Tackling Global Health Threats through Low - Cost Interventions, Focusing on Water Borne Diseases in India

Manya Roongta

Abstract: 70% of the earth is water, but only 0.1% is available for human use. Water-borne diseases are caused by pathogenic microorganisms that enter the human body through contaminated water and pose a significant threat to global public health, particularly in developing nations like India. These deadly waterborne diseases, such as typhoid, cholera, and dysentery, have high mortality rates and detract from the overall welfare of society by taxing the healthcare system, causing severe economic losses from decreased productivity and increased healthcare costs. In India, the problems are worsened by overpopulation, leading to overcrowded living conditions, inadequate sanitation, and insufficient clean water supply, thereby creating an environment where waterborne disease can easily spread. Vulnerable populations such as the children and the elderly are especially at risk which leads to a cycle of poverty and poor health. The current primary treatments for waterborne diseases include antibiotics and advanced medical care which are often costly and inaccessible for many people in low-income regions. Additionally, excessive use of antibiotics can lead to resistance which complicates the treatment process. A significant part of the population in India lives in poverty and lacks access to clean water and good healthcare. Thus, low-cost interventions are important as they can offer solutions that can be applied over a large scale, thereby helping to prevent the spread of these diseases and improve public health. Some low-cost methods to combat water diseases include the distribution of affordable water purification systems like chlorine tablets and ceramic filters, the installation of rain harvesting systems, and public education on safe water practices. These strategies are cost-effective and easy to implement in different areas. Our study is based on comprehensive surveys conducted across different regions and aims to assess the current state of water quality and public awareness. Surveys are crucial as they provide detailed insight into the awareness levels across different regions and also help identify gaps in knowledge which allows for targeted solutions. This approach helps ensure that the solutions proposed are relevant and effective for various communities. This project will empower families, especially those of low income, with the knowledge of protecting themselves from waterborne diseases through prevention and breaking the vicious cycle of poverty and ill health. By using low-cost solutions, we can help improve overall public health, reduce healthcare costs, and enhance the quality of life for millions of people all across India.

Keywords: Water borne diseases, low cost, boiling, healthcare, public health, cholera, typhoid, dysentery, survey

How to Cite?: Manya Roongta, "Tackling Global Health Threats through Low - Cost Interventions, Focusing on Water Borne Diseases in India", Volume 13 Issue 12, December 2024, International Journal of Science and Research (IJSR), Pages: 321-327, https://www.ijsr.net/getabstract.php?paperid=SR241127172105, DOI: https://dx.doi.org/10.21275/SR241127172105