Read the following passage and mark the letter A, B, C, or D on your answer sheet to choose the word or phrase that best fits each of the numbered blanks from 34 to 38.

WATER: OUR MOST PRECIOUS RESOURCE

There are (34) _______ people around the world who do not have enough water for their daily needs. And as the world’s population increases, so does the demand for water. Today, nearly 20% of the world's population live in areas (35) _______ there isn't sufficient fresh water. Not only that, but 25% live in developing countries that suffer from frequent water (36) _______. They lack the systems necessary to carry the water from the rivers to where it would be used.

If there is not enough clean water to drink, people will drink water of poor quality. This can increase the risk of (37) _______ diseases such as cholera and dysentery. Water is a precious resource, but in countries with above-average rainfall, like the UK or Holland, it is often taken for granted. (38) _______, with anticipated increase in global temperatures in years to come, we should all learn to be less wasteful.

(Adapted from Oxford Exam Trainer by Helen Weale)