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Fluoride

Answer

We continue to refer to key research reports commissioned since 1999. A ““Systematic Review of Public Water Fluoridation”” published by the University of York in 2000 found no significant association between, water fluoridation and goitre, bone disease or any other systemic illness, but called for further research to strengthen the evidence base. ““Water Fluoridation and Health”” published by the Medical Research Council in 2002 endorsed the University of York's recommendations and suggested priorities for further research. Copies of both reports are available in the Library. Accordingly, the Department commissioned the University of Newcastle upon Tyne to investigate the bio-availability (absorption of fluoride. The report the ““Bioavailability of Fluoride in Drinking Water””, a Human Experimental Study published in 2004 showed no statistically significant differences between absorption of fluoride from naturally fluoridated and artificially fluoridated water. Copies of this publication have already been placed in the Library.Evidence to date shows that dental fluorosis in a minority of children remains the only proven effect of the fluoridation of water, besides protection against tooth decay. Dental fluorosis is characterised by a flecking, or more rarely a mottling, of teeth, often only visible when teeth are dried. We are supporting research into the assessment of fluorosis using intra-oral cameras. If, as we expect, it shows that the measurement of dental fluorosis can be standardised, we will undertake a further study of its prevalence and aesthetic impact.

Secondary information

Type

Written question

Reference

479 c529W;479 c527W; 217691

Session

2007-08

Subjects

Drinking water Fluoride

Link

View this Written question on www.publications.parliament.uk