- Lack of sufficient available water resources to meet the demands of water users.
- Occurs when there is not enough water to satisfy the needs of all users, including humans, and the environment.
Relation with Human Health
- Access to clean and safe water is crucial for human health and hygiene.
- Limited access to water can result in numerous health problems, such as:
1. Diarrhea and Other Gastrointestinal Diseases:
- Water scarcity often leads to a lack of proper hygiene and sanitation, increasing the risk of water contamination.
- Contaminated water can transmit a variety of gastrointestinal pathogens, causing diarrhea and other related illnesses.
- Children and the elderly are particularly vulnerable to these diseases.
2. Water-Borne Infections:
- When there is water scarcity, people may resort to using unsafe water sources, such as stagnant water bodies or shallow wells.
- These sources can harbor bacteria, viruses, and parasites that cause a range of waterborne diseases such as cholera, typhoid, and dysentery.
3. Skin Infections and Poor Hygiene:
- Inadequate water for bathing and maintaining hygiene can lead to increased susceptibility to skin infections, including rashes, dermatitis, and sores.
- Without enough water for proper handwashing, the spread of infectious diseases can be exacerbated.
4. Malnutrition:
- Water scarcity can negatively impact food production, affecting access to nutritious diets.
- Insufficient water for irrigation and livestock farming can result in reduced crop yields and livestock production.
- Limited food availability can lead to malnutrition and increased vulnerability to diseases.
5. Mental Health Impacts:
- Psychological consequences often accompany water scarcity.
- Constant stress from water shortages, especially in regions where water is essential for daily activities, can contribute to anxiety, depression, and other mental health issues.
6. Gender Inequality:
- In many regions where water scarcity is prevalent, women and girls bear the primary responsibility for fetching water.
- Time spent on water collection can limit their opportunities for education, economic activities, and social participation, perpetuating gender inequality.
Addressing water scarcity requires comprehensive strategies that focus on sustainable water management, improved access to safe water sources, and the promotion of hygiene practices. Collaborative efforts involving governments, communities, and organizations are crucial for mitigating the health risks associated with water scarcity and ensuring the well-being of populations in affected regions.