By Prensa Latina
United Nations : The World Health Organization (WHO) has said more than 13 million lives could be saved annually by reducing environmental pollution and ensuring safe drinking water.
In a report released Wednesday, it said an improved environment would help in preventing one third of the diseases that are common in some underdeveloped countries.
Over ten percent of deaths in underdeveloped countries are caused by two environmental risk factors – contaminated water, and domestic pollution largely due to use of solid fuels for cooking, according to the WHO.
As many as 74 per cent of deaths of children below the age of five worldwide, are caused by diarrhea and respiratory infections, the UN agency pointed out.
Although the poorest nations are the most affected by adverse environmental factors, the WHO said no country is immune to the ecological impact on health.