A new Nature Communications paper entitled "Self-reported anticipated harm from drinking water across 141 countries" found that more than half of adults across sampled countries anticipate serious harm from drinking water in the next two years. Conducted by researchers including Joshua D. Miller, Chad Staddon and former IMMANA grantee Sera Young, the study examined self-reported anticipated harm from drinking water, using survey data from over 148,000 individuals worldwide.

The prevalence of self-reported anticipated harm was higher among women (relative to men), urban (relative to rural) residents, individuals with self-reported financial difficulties (relative to those getting by on their present income) and individuals with more years of education. 

Country-level data revealed significant variations. In Zambia, over 54% reported harm from drinking water in the past two years, while in Lebanon, 78.3% anticipate future harm. The study also found that factors like public-sector corruption and recent water-related harm are associated with higher levels of perceived risk.

The authors add that consideration of users’ perspectives, particularly with respect to trust in the safety and governance of water services, is critical for promoting effective water resource management and ensuring the use, safety, and sustainability of water services.

Read the paper here