This study investigates water quality risks in a rural village in Cambodia by conducting water sampling and interviews among households with different social attributes, including poor households and female-headed households. Water samples were collected from both drinking and domestic water sources, and local practices related to water and sanitation were examined. The results revealed that even when the purpose and storage method of water appeared similar, there were variations in the levels of
E. coli contamination among households, suggesting that social vulnerability may influence exposure to water-related health risks. In addition, the study identified several community-led initiatives aimed at improving water hygiene, such as health education workshops. These findings highlight the need to consider not only physical infrastructure but also social and behavioral factors when assessing water safety. The study offers practical insights for designing context-specific monitoring systems and public health interventions that reflect the lived realities of rural communities.
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