Role of safe drinking water in controlling water-borne diseases in Anantapur district - a case study of SSSWSP

Abstract

Water, which is essential for life, growth and health, can also be a source of spread of disease and cause of ill-health, if contaminated or improperly handled and stored. Safe drinking water plays a major role in the overall well-being of the people. Women bear the physical burden of fetching water. Women and children are particularly vulnerable to the effects of water contamination. In any area, if fluoride level is more than 1.5 mg/I then such areas are to be considered as fluoride affected areas. Anantapur is one of the major fluoride affected areas and majority of the people are suffering from fluoride related diseases like Arthritis, Dental Caries, Mal-formation of bones and teeth and other water-borne diseases.