Population Reports' Q&As

Meeting the Urban Challenge

Making Urban Areas Work

What are the two steps most needed to prevent the majority of water-related diseases and deaths in urban areas?

Providing an adequate water supply and improving public sanitation are the two steps most needed to prevent the majority of water-related diseases and deaths in urban areas. For better sanitation, constructing sanitary latrines, building sewers, and treating waste water to biodegrade human wastes will help curb diseases (145). Such simple technologies as hand-pumps and improved latrines have benefited millions of people across the world (150).

Disclaimer: The information provided on this web site is not official U.S. Government information and does not represent the views or positions of the U.S. Agency for International Development or the U.S. Government.