Water fluoridation as a public health measure. A sociopolitical perspective
Hartshorne, J.E.; Carstens, I.L.
South African Medical Journal 77(10): 525-528
1990
ISSN/ISBN: 0256-9574 PMID: 2188382 Document Number: 364900
This review provides a perspective on water fluoridation as a public health measure and the sociopolitical disputes preventing its implementation. Notwithstanding its world-wide recognition as a safe, efficient and cost-effective public health measure, water fluoridation has increasingly found itself in the sociopolitical arena. Factors responsible for preveting the implementation of water fluoridation include public sensitivity, anti-fluoridation campaigns, negative reporting by the media, public debates and lack of professional involvement. Successful implementation of water fluoridation can only be achieved by a purposeful noational strategy, active communication and involvement by all concerned.