Module 9 Global Health: Earth Covered by Water (Essay Sample)

Module 9 Global Health
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Module 9 Global Health
Over 75 percent of the earth is covered by water and as such, it is arguably easy for more than 50 percent of the earth’s population to access it. However, the main issue that arises is whether this water is safe for consumption or not. A 2010 report by UNICEF/WHO indicates that access to clean water was as a result of unimproved drinking sources. Equally, as the report indicates, more than half of the population in developing countries employs poor drainage and disposal practices. Most rural areas lack proper sanitation facilities and as such, open defecation and other unhealthy methods like use of buckets, open pit latrine, and shared latrine are the commonly employed disposal methods. Additionally, air quality poses a major health concern for many households especially those who lack electricity. Research shows that more than 20 percent of the world’s population relies on solid fuels for cooking and lighting which, according to studies, are poisonous to both humans and other living organisms.
Unfortunately, if not controlled, lack of clean water and proper sanitation facilities attract adverse consequences that can sometimes be deadly. For instance, unimproved water sources are contaminated with chemicals and bacteria that if consumed, may lead to stomach and gastrointestinal illnesses like diarrhea and vomiting. Poor sanitation practices could among other effects, provide a good breeding ground for mosquitoes tha...