Factors associated with drinking and being satisfied with tap water in Indigenous communities in Saskatchewan, Canada

Abstract

Previous studies have described concerns regarding tap water in Indigenous communities, yet there is little information on participants who report drinking their tap water and being satisfied with its quality. This study undertaken with members of 8 Indigenous communities in Saskatchewan, Canada, and identified factors associated with both the decision to drink tap water at home and being satisfied with its quality. We examined the importance of factors such as individual attributes, experiences, attitudes, household and community-based variables. Less than one-quarter of participants (23.4%) drank tap water and were satisfied with its quality. Individuals who did not boil tap water (odds ratio [OR] = 5.76, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.68–19.8), those who did not experience tap water odour (OR = 2.38, 95% CI = 1.26–4.50) and participants living in communities away from urban centres (OR = 2.74, 95% CI = 1.63–4.51) were more likely to drink and be satisfied with their tap water. Concerns about the environment had the most impact on community members aged 55+ years. Those not reporting concerns about environmental problems affecting water (OR = 11.4, 95% CI = 3.10–42.2) were much more likely to drink and be satisfied with their tap water. Programmes to improve water quality, reduce the need for boil water advisories and increase community confidence in the environment could improve tap water satisfaction and consumption.

Tap Water Quality: Seasonal User Surveys in Poland

“…In literature, we can find, for example, studies carried out in Canada, where there is a very strong emphasis on the protection of surface water (SWP-Source Water Protection), focusing on protection against excessive water pollution and, no less dangerous, excessive water consumption [24]. Due to the wide variation in the location of water sources and in the availability of water supplies, the assessment of water quality varies greatly, depending precisely on these factors [25]. The most commonly analysed parameters are health characteristics and disease risk, ease of access to other sources, fear of chemical contaminants and information from the media [25].…”

“…Due to the wide variation in the location of water sources and in the availability of water supplies, the assessment of water quality varies greatly, depending precisely on these factors [25]. The most commonly analysed parameters are health characteristics and disease risk, ease of access to other sources, fear of chemical contaminants and information from the media [25]. A distinctive group that assesses the quality of tap water in Canada is the indigenous people, who place emphasis mainly on its safety.…”

“…A distinctive group that assesses the quality of tap water in Canada is the indigenous people, who place emphasis mainly on its safety. Studies have found that as many as 73% of water intakes for indigenous people are at risk for health reasons, and water properties are determined on the basis of the users' age, culture, gender, experience, belief in the need for boiling tap water, position in the household, trust in supply reliability, and environmental factors [25]. The quality is rated higher the more odourless the water is.…”

“…The greater the distance from centres of civilisation, the greater the distrust in the quality of tap water and the growing belief in the safety of ground water. Some consumers choose bottled water in general as an alternative to tap water and groundwater [25].…”