[Waterborne diseases and basic sanitation in Colombia].

OBJECTIVE

To analyze the relationship of sewerage coverage and wastewater treatment with waterborne disease behaviour.

METHODS

A descriptive retrospective study was conducted using secondary sources (document review and information available in databases) about basic sanitation coverage, treatment of domestic sewage in the country and the prevalence of waterborne diseases during the period 2008-2014.

RESULTS

The country invested USD 1,100 million in the implementation of wastewater treatment systems from 2011 until the first half of 2013. However, the incidence of waterborne diseases, such as acute diarrheal disease, foodborne diseases and typhoid and paratyphoid fever did not decrease during the period 2008-2014; only hepatitis A registered a decrease.

DISCUSSION: Investment in water supply and sewerage systems is relevant to improve health conditions of the population and to reduce the incidence and prevalence of various health conditions; however, it is necessary to address other aspects such as health education and social empowerment to address this problem more efficiently.