Risk of Gastrointestinal Illness Associated with the Consumption of Rainwater: A Systematic Review

摘要: The collection of rainwater for human consumption is a practice well established in many parts the world. Much research to date regarding this inexpensive and sustainable source has focused on its microbiological or chemical quality there have been no reviews epidemiological evidence actual health risks associated with consumption. Electronic bibliographic databases were searched studies that attempted quantify risk gastrointestinal disease linked harvested rainwater. Online from oldest up January 2011. Both observational experimental included. In addition, reference sections key articles authors previous contacted where appropriate. Studies assessed relevance independently duplicate. Searches returned total 764 articles, 13 met inclusion criteria, 5 these outbreak reports, 9 other design types. Pooled subgroup analysis suggests reduced illness compared unimproved supplies (relative 0.57 95% CI 0.42, 0.77). There was significant difference pooled improved water 0.82 0.38, 1.73). However, heterogeneity one study showing an excess campylobacteriosis. Classification reports determined 4 "strongly rainwater" while 1 report "probably rainwater". We conclude safer than supplies. Where feasible harvesting should be encouraged as step toward achieving millennium development targets.