Abstract: Due to the lack of real-time monitoring information of traditional epidemiological investigation methods， in recent years， a new method of obtaining relevant epidemiological information through wastewater analysis has become an effective way to maintain the health of the population， which is called wastewater-based epidemiology. Information obtained from the chemical analysis of wastewater can be used to estimate exposure or consumption of chemicals. This work introduces the principle and the investigation method of wastewater-based epidemiology. Compared with traditional epidemiological survey methods， the advantages and disadvantages of wastewater-based epidemiology are analyzed. Development and prospects of wastewater-based epidemiological investigation methods in China are analyzed and some suggestions are discussed.