Final answer:
The implementation of water filtration and sanitation was key in reducing outbreaks of waterborne diseases such as cholera, typhoid fever, and typhus, especially in cities. Clean water supply has been vital for public health and the development of urban areas. Historical events like the removal of the Broad Street pump handle were crucial in the fight against these diseases.
Step-by-step explanation:
Filtration of water supplied to cities was a pivotal advancement in public health, significantly reducing the prevalence of waterborne diseases. The process of sanitation of drinking water, especially using chlorine-based compounds, has played a crucial role in curbing the spread of these diseases. Access to clean water has not only improved overall health but also supported social and economic development by enhancing the growth and prosperity of new cities.
Historically, diseases such as cholera, typhus, and typhoid fever ravaged populations, particularly in urban centers with poor sanitation. Dr. John Snow's famous removal of the Broad Street pump handle in 1854 brought to light the importance of clean water in preventing cholera. This historical incident marked a turning point in understanding waterborne diseases and improving community health standards. Through modern water treatment methods, diseases like cholera have become almost nonexistent in the western hemisphere, though challenges remain in developing nations where access to clean water might still be limited.